<p>I spoke with a co-worker on the train today and she mentioned that Holy Cross had requested additional recommendations for her son and some additional writing samples. She wondered what this meant. I see it as a somewhat positive request. What do others feel and has anyone else received such a request?</p>
<p>There is obviously interest in the applicant but also concern about his academic capabilities and in particular writing skills, perhaps due to low grades and/or lack of evidence in the other recommendations. Writing is important for liberal arts colleges.</p>
<p>Thank you1980collegegrad. I suspect you are correct. My understanding is the boy underperformed at a prestigious private school. He had earned a full scholarship at the school based on his test scores, but his mom says he lacks motivation and seldom studies hard. His mom tells me that his recommendation was outstanding as the teacher believes the student has incredible potential. In any event, my understanding is that his strongest academic skill is his writing, so additional writing samples certainly could help him.</p>