Would it be inappropriate to ask my GC this?

Applying to College
1

I was planning on writing about the reason for my two Bs in freshman year. Both my mother and I were hospitalized due to mental health problems (my mother was in for at least a month), which made my second semester really difficult. I ended the year with two Bs (89s lol) partly because of the time it took to learn how to cope with the situation. My counselor knows about this, but I don’t know if they plan on putting it in their letter of recommendation. Is it appropriate to ask them if they plan on touching on the topic? I know I signed an agreement saying I can’t see my letters of rec, but I just want to make sure that I’m not adding this information to the additional information section of my Common App. Not only would it be redundant, but I also don’t want admissions officers to think I’m using it as a really big excuse for my shortcomings that year. Also, those were my only Bs ever, so I don’t consider them to be a significant hindrance in my admissions chances (3.95 UW vs. 4.0 UW). There was just a real reason for why my academic performance dropped at that time.

tltr: Is it okay to ask my GC if they plan on talking about a certain topic in their letter of recommendation for me even though I waived my right to read my letters of rec?

2

While the important thing is that both you and your mother are doing well, save yourself the eyerolls from your GC and/or AOs trying to “explain” why your GPA is “only” 3.95.

3

@skieurope Ok, this was my impression of the situation and I totally agree. I didn’t want to come off as arrogant or elitist. I completely understand that a 3.95 is still a GPA that I should be proud of. Thanks for the recommendation!

4

The gc can still use your turnaround in praising your determination and successes. They don’t need to go into specifics about what the issue was. It can just be a family challenge.

I see this less about explaining B grades and more about a chance to highlight your strengths, resilience.

In the end, make the decision you’re most comfortable with.