<p>I know recommendations are often really important, especially at top schools. I asked teachers that know me well both in and outside of the classroom, and have commented on how insightful or precise my work is. However I realize that I don't talk much in class - not usually because I don't have anything to say or am not following the conversation, but simply because I'm a bit shy and hesitant. Is that looked on as a personality flaw by college admissions officers?</p>
<p>If they really know you well you should be fine. You’re on a social site right now so you aren’t antisocial so they won’t deny your admission for being shy.</p>
<p>^I don’t think using a forum makes someone social, probably the opposite (¬_¬) </p>
<p>Being hesitant is definitely not a good character trait, but your teacher probably won’t describe you that way. She might say “XXX didn’t speak much, but had something good to say whenever she did”</p>
<p>If you’re worried about it, make sure to assert yourself somewhere else in the application.</p>
<p>Shy and hesitant translates as no self confidence and too guarded.</p>
<p>Work on speaking up in class and not being afraid to say what you think.
Take it as constructive criticism.</p>
<p>No effect on your admissions.
You’re good.</p>
<p>In colleges where the teaching is usually done in large lecture classes it probably doesn’t matter. But in smaller colleges that focus on seminars or small classes where student participation is a key part of the learning and discovery process, being seen as someone that does not contribute in class is not going to be a positive.</p>