Is Dartmouth’s Application Process Compelled by the Requirement of a Peer Recommendation-

Does Dartmouth require a peer recommendation?

Dartmouth College, renowned for its rigorous academic environment and vibrant campus life, has a unique application process that includes several distinctive elements. One of these elements is the requirement for a peer recommendation. This essay aims to explore the purpose behind this requirement and its significance in the Dartmouth application process.

The peer recommendation is a crucial component of Dartmouth’s application process. It is a letter written by a student who knows the applicant well and can provide insights into their character, abilities, and potential. This requirement sets Dartmouth apart from many other colleges and universities, as it emphasizes the importance of personal connections and community within the institution.

The primary purpose of the peer recommendation is to offer a different perspective on the applicant. While the other parts of the application, such as grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities, provide a quantitative measure of the applicant’s abilities, the peer recommendation offers a qualitative perspective. It allows the admissions committee to gain a deeper understanding of the applicant’s character, values, and potential for success at Dartmouth.

Dartmouth seeks to create a diverse and inclusive community, and the peer recommendation plays a significant role in achieving this goal. By considering letters from peers, the admissions committee can assess how well the applicant fits into Dartmouth’s community and whether they will contribute positively to the campus culture. This requirement also encourages applicants to build meaningful relationships with their peers, which is essential for a well-rounded college experience.

Furthermore, the peer recommendation allows the admissions committee to evaluate the applicant’s ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively. Dartmouth emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration in its academic and extracurricular programs, and the peer recommendation can provide evidence of the applicant’s ability to engage with others and contribute to a team.

In conclusion, the requirement for a peer recommendation at Dartmouth serves several important purposes. It offers a unique perspective on the applicant’s character and potential, promotes a sense of community and inclusivity, and evaluates the applicant’s ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. By incorporating this requirement into the application process, Dartmouth ensures that it selects students who are not only academically talented but also well-rounded and capable of thriving in the college’s dynamic environment.