Does anyone know if Tulane likes to see more than the recommended 1 letter of recommendation from a guidance counselor and if that might show more demonstrated interest and a willingness to share more about yourself with your top choice? This is the fine print at the bottom of the “Apply” website page:
“†We do not require teacher recommendations (only a counselor recommendation), but we are happy to review additional recommendations you submit”
Is this another “optional, but not really optional” item, or is it better to respect their wishes and not send more than they ask for? We are getting mixed answers from a few different people who have either gotten in or who are very familiar with Tulane and/or the college application process.
My son who is going to be a freshman did the Common Application and I think it had space for maybe two teacher recommendations. He needed those for other schools, so I think they went to Tulane as well. I don’t see how it can hurt to send the extra recommendations especially, if the teacher really know the student.
At an information session I attended last year, the admissions rep said that they only really need/want other recommendations if they have different information from a different perspective, i.e. a letter from a coach, etc. However, I sent an email to the rep asking about this (mostly just to have a reason to email/demonstrate interest, lol) and he assured me that you are “free to submit whichever supplemental recommendations you wish.” Therefore, I sent both of my teacher recommendations–and apparently that was fine, since I’ll be attending Tulane this year! Basically, I would say it definitely can’t hurt to submit more recommendation letters.
You should send in a teacher’s recommendation. Just make sure the teacher you choose will be able to testify to your virtue and character in an anecdotal letter. Admission officers know when recommendation letters are insincere. Before asking your teacher/ counselor, make sure they will be able to write a genuine letter.