<p>I'm worried about this peer review thing. I like my friends (most of the time) and all, but none of them can write worth a crap. And that goes for the rest of the school too. I know that sounds harsh and stupid, but I believe it to be true. I will be the only one in my class applying to Dartmouth, and likely the only one who will get into a top 25 caliber school. I'm not saying I'm better than anyone else, that's just how it is. I've seen my friend's English essays and newspaper editorials and they are just terrible. I'm talking about phrases that aren't even sentences, and no organization or flow in sight. So just how seriously does Dartmouth take these? And to what extent can I "edit"? lol</p>
<p>I really think your friends' grammar and writing skills won't be an issue. The most important thing is that the content is meaningful and accurately portrays what you are like as a person. The year after I was accepted into Dartmouth, I had an acquaintance approach me about writing her peer review. I declined because I hardly even knew her! Make sure someone who writes your review knows you very well and don't worry about their writing skills. And, by no means should you EDIT!! These reviews should be written by your friend and mailed in without you seeing it. Perhaps others on this board will advise you otherwise, but there's my opinion.</p>
<p>Anyone else?</p>
<p>when my son was applying ..the ad officer hinted that the peer review is way down the list of importance as is the hometown interview...
she implied it would help if you were head to head against an equally
qualified applicant and maybe it would be a tie breaker...so dont sweat it..
your english course loving friends and theater people would probably have a few more superlatives in thier lanuage skills..(my son asked a theater person)</p>
<p>Please don't edit your friend's peer review - that just seems unethical to me, not to mention pretty lame.</p>
<p>I understand, and to clarify, I basically meant edit as in spelling, ridiculous grammar errors, and pointing out that such and such line isn't even a sentence. Seriously, this is how people at my school write, and they are the SMART ones. I do have one friend I think can write prety well, but he's not a real good friend, and he is often power hungry and jealous so I am scared of what he might write. But thanks for the remarks everyone.</p>
<p>Okay, just checking - no offense was meant by the previous post :)</p>
<p>Do you seriously have no close friends that can be trusted to do your peer review? I mean, they don't have to go to your school - my peer review pal lived in another state. And it's fine if they aren't the world's greatest writer, as long as 1) they're sincere, and 2) what they have to say about you is specific and encouraging.</p>
<p>And i'd definitely say - go with the close friend who knows your abilities over the not-so-close good writer.</p>
<p>I don't have close friends at other schools (ok, maybe at some colleges). I'm getting the picture here.</p>