A brag sheet should trigger useful memories, not dictate praise. Teachers and counselors need different information because they contribute different perspectives to the application.
Create a shared core
- Full name and contact information
- College list and earliest deadline
- Academic and career interests
- Activities, responsibilities, work, and family commitments
- One or two meaningful changes or challenges
- Submission invitation status
Add teacher-specific reminders
Name the course, a demanding assignment, a discussion or question, a revision after feedback, and a classroom contribution. Choose moments the teacher can independently remember and interpret.
Add counselor-specific context
Explain school involvement, longer-term growth, barriers or responsibilities, and how opportunities were used. The counselor may also need context about the school or curriculum, so avoid assuming the same packet works for both roles.
Keep the packet usable
One organized packet is better than several email attachments. Use headings, dates, and concise bullets. Give the writer enough time and do not ask to review a confidential letter.
Build one concise core packet, then add the classroom details a teacher needs and the broader context a counselor can evaluate.
Keep the common app requirements in view.
Common App guidance says counselor and teacher recommendations reveal a student’s personality and strengths from different viewpoints. Applicants must invite recommenders before they can create the related account, while recommenders use the system to organize requests and submit forms.
Return to the Common App cluster →