Will receiving a recommendation saying I’m shy completely ruin my chances of getting into any college? Don’t colleges want outspoken and social students?
No, I don’t think so. They know that their students run the gamut from outrageously outgoing to quite introverted and studious, from charismatic leaders to faithful followers. They are smart enough to know it takes all kinds to make a well balanced and vibrant class. Even though it sounds like a contradiction, shy students do indeed add to the overall vibrancy of a diverse class.
I don’t think it would necessary hurt your app- as @fallenchemist said, colleges need a diverse class. Every student can’t be outspoken and social- how boring!!
I think shyness is perfectly normal as personality traits go. I would just be a tad nervous if it was described as just shyness, or if they were saying something along the lines of “not personable” or “actively wants to disengage”- ie if they were saying something negative.