Potential Discrepancies for ECs

<p>Here's my problem: I'm a modest person (wow, I feel so hypocritical right now, lol) and while I am involved in various ECs, they are the epitome of extracurricular activities in that my GC and even the teachers that will be writing my recommendations will either not be aware of my activities at all, or may just tangentially remember them, and either way are unlikely to mention them in their recommendations. I'm worried that I will appear to be faking the majority of my ECs and am interested in the process of verifying ECs. I've read other threads about this topic, but never to the extent that I will probably face in the admissions process. Does the adcom contact the school first and ask, or does the adcom ask the student for proof? I have ample evidence of my ECs, but I'm afraid of never being notified. Logically, I would assume that the applicant would at least be notified, but being the typical neurotic CCer, I would like confirmation (it would be great if an admissions rep could respond!)</p>

<p>Is my paranoia justified?</p>

<p>And to all those who are likely tempted to suggest that if I don't know those writing my recommendations very well, then I should choose others...I do know them very well, have performed admirably in their classes (#1 for one and top for the other) and have had some conversations outside of class, which is more than I can say for my other teachers, as well as more than many can say for their recommendation writers. I just choose not to share all my ECs out of modesty and besides, our conversations have never strayed to any topic related to my ECs.</p>

<p>You could always ask the teacher to see if they would include it. From what I understand, it is not at all ordinary to give your teachers/counselors your "resume" and they can peruse it before (and therefore potentially using it during) writing a rec.</p>

<p>Your guidence counselor and teachers should write about what they know - your academic accomplishments and potential, and your unique contributions to the classroom. Don't ask them to drone on about the ECs that will already be apparent on your application - it would not add anything and would dilute the important information admissions is looking for in the recommendations. If you are concerned that your ECs are not believable, include a supervisior's name and phone number or email at the end of the EC description or - if a supplemental recommendation is allowed - have your main EC supervisor write it.</p>

<p>Providing a resume when you request recommendations is an excellent idea - it gives your recommenders a sense of how you were able to achieve at such a high level while organizing a very busy life and they can include that aspect in their recommendations.</p>

<p>What I do when I ask for a recommendation for anything is I hand the recommender a resume where I've stated and explained my ECs, achievements, awards, etc. I'm sure this will help you.</p>

<p>You could also ask the teachers if they have time to meet with you for a few minutes, so that you can give them your resume and discuss your college plans with them. That way, if they have any questions or want more details about anything, you will be able to give them the information they need.</p>