QUESTION: When I apply to colleges, will they check references from jobs and activities I have taken part in? Signed, Active Girl
Dear Active Girl: It is not typical for colleges to check any references for jobs and activities. Logistically, this would be very time consuming to do for the tens of thousands of students who apply. Plus, letters of recommendations serve as references for you and your accomplishments.
We’re not sure why this would make a difference to you, unless you would receive a less than stellar review from one of your references, you are planning to be dishonest about your accomplishments or you are just curious.
If you are concerned about receiving a negative review from a reference, do not ask the person to write your letter of recommendation. On a separate note, it would be a good idea to make amends with this person because he or she may not need to be a reference for colleges but may need to be one when you seek a job in the future.
If you are planning to be dishonest, don’t do it. Colleges will compare the information you list in your application to the letters of recommendation they receive. They will become suspicious if the two paint two different portraits. In addition, colleges require you to abide by the honor system, which they take very seriously. If they find out that you lie, your admission could be at stake.
If you are just curious, then you have nothing to worry about.
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