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My friend asked me to write a brief note for him. I am not sure if he should send this, it might do more harm than good. Also, if he sends it to shcools that I am applying to, does it make me look pompous? Thanks.

Without impetus besides my interest in his well being, I feel compelled to write a brief explanatory note about Ryan Buckley's standardized test scores that I hope the admissions committee will include during his consideration. Having nearly identical schedules with Ryan since freshman year, I feel that I can offer insight into his abilities that teacher recommendations and personal statements cannot. Ryan has an outstanding analytic mind, and I guarantee you with full confidence that he is completely capable of achieving a perfect score on the math portion of the SAT. The only explanation I could offer for his performance would be that he made inconsequential arithmetic errors-he thoroughly understands every concept that the Educational Testing Service includes on the SAT's. Now it may seem that you are receiving this note because Ryan is obsessed with numbers and test scores; however, I feel that since these scores are an important admissions factor-not the only, or most important, but they do carry weight. I am hoping the admissions committee will understand that they are not reflective of his ability. Although I am a good student, I find myself immediately asking Ryan when I am confused. I am hoping that this brief note will serve as a helpful sort of peer evaluation that is a result of candid observation. Viewed holistically, Ryan is an exceptional conceptual learner, but disappointingly, his scores are not representative of what I understand to be his abilities. I must reiterate that the purpose of my note was not to make excuses for him or an attempt to dismiss his scores; I am solely interested in helping the admissions committee to understand Ryan's particular strengths.

By Madrigal (Madrigal) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 12:38 pm: Edit

Yes or No??

By Muzicgal04 (Muzicgal04) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 12:45 pm: Edit

No, do not send it. Honestly, they dont want extra crap, it doesnt explain something that they're really dying to know...many of us have this issue, and quite honestly, if we all sent in a letter about it, decisions would come out in june and not one second before. I dont think it helps him, I think it probably hurts you...dont do it

By Ndbisme2 (Ndbisme2) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 12:47 pm: Edit

I would say no.

By Madrigal (Madrigal) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 12:53 pm: Edit

ok, thanks. I didn't really think it was such a good idea, but he asked for it.

By Libsters (Libsters) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 01:12 pm: Edit

Hmm .. Well, I think it depends. What were his math scores on the SAT and SAT II's ---- were they really dismal compared to the avgs. of the schools he is applying to? ( Then send.) Or were they OK, but he just doesn't think they are "good enough." (Don't send) ... Also, it depends on WHAT schools he is applyign too --- Some schools really place little emphasis on the SATs, and hence it would be stupid to send the letter.

By Madrigal (Madrigal) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 01:19 pm: Edit

Well, his scores decreased after taking them the second time.

By Libsters (Libsters) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 01:53 pm: Edit

By a lot, or only a little? They look at your highest scores, no matter what. They might think its a bit funny, but if the scores are still in the same range, its usually OK.

By Madrigal (Madrigal) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 02:28 pm: Edit

Not a lot, but it was still strange. I think i will tell him not to send it where i am applying

By Christinew87 (Christinew87) on Friday, January 02, 2004 - 03:03 pm: Edit

maybe you could have his math teacher write a recommendation vouching for his math skills. just a thought.
Christine