McLean School
College Counseling Office
Parent “Brag” Sheet
Senior Parents –
An essential part of my job as college counselor is to help each student
formulate an appropriate list of colleges and to support his or her
admission
application with a letter of recommendation. To write an effective and
persuasive letter, it is important for me to understand the strengths and
weaknesses, accomplishments and challenges, goals and aspirations, and
relevant family dynamics of each student. As parents, you can provide
insight that is most helpful as I strive to bring to life the uniqueness and
worthiness of your son’s or daughter’s college admission candidacy. Please
take some time to complete this form and return it to me by the first day of
school in September. I’d like each family to return one copy of the form,
but I welcome both parents to complete separate forms if you so prefer.
Also, do not feel constrained by the space provided – please add any
additional pages as necessary. This form is also available on the McLean
School web-site – go to “News” and then to “Parents.”
Thank you for you cooperation and assistance.
Student Name:
Mother’s Name: Email:
Father’s Name: Email:
Who will be the primary contact for issues related to the college admission
process?
Mother ___ Father______ Both _______ Other ____________
Who is completing this form? Mother _________ Father __________Both_____
1. What do you consider the most important achievements of your child
during
high school? Why are these significant?
2. Describe one or two majors events that you see as turning points in your
child’s development and explain why you view them as such.
3. His/her high school career has been pleasurable and/or painful because…
4. What are his/her outstanding qualities?
5. List what you consider to be your child’s major strengths as a college
candidate and person.
6. List what you consider your child’s major weaknesses as a college
candidate.
7. I am/We are proud of our son/daughter because….
8. What 3 or 4 words best describe your child. Why?
9. Are there any personal or unusual circumstances that have affected your
child’s education?
10. List any colleges that you are particularly interested in for your child.
11. My child has a legacy at the following colleges:
College Relation of alumni Degrees Earned (with
dates)
12. Are college plans limited by financial circumstances? If so, how?
13. Are there other family- related factors that will influence your
child’s choices?
14. Is there anything else that I should know that you have not had a
chance to communicate to me on this form or in person?
15. Are there any personal or professional contacts at colleges,
universities, or other organizations that I should be aware of?
