JLWS Essay Reader Agreement 2025

Message to our Volunteer Essay Readers

Thank you for agreeing to volunteer as an essay reader for the Crosby Scholars Program. We will send the essay(s) to you via email and ask that you read the essay that you receive. We will then forward your comments to the Scholar after removing your name and email address.

We emphasize to students that the essay is their unique, authentic voice in the application process and their opportunity to show why they would be a good fit for the campus community. It is a chance for the admissions committee to get to know the Scholar beyond statistical data and to evaluate the Scholar’s writing ability. A well-written, informative essay can benefit the Scholar in the review process. We encourage Scholars to embrace the opportunity to share their story.

When reading, please consider the following:

● What is the word limit and does the essay meet the range?

● Did the Scholar respond to the prompt in a clear and concise manner?

● Does the essay engage the reader?

● Are there parts of the essay that need elaboration or that are unclear?

● Does the essay reveal the Scholar’s personality, values, creativity, interests, etc.?

● Does the essay reflect the Scholar positively?

Your feedback should guide the student toward revisions that strengthen the essay’s content but should not include specific suggestions for change. That is the work of the student.

Sometimes students believe that using big words equals a well-written essay. Did this Scholar appear to rely heavily on a thesaurus? Students with well-developed vocabularies will use a variety of words effortlessly and in the context of the story they are sharing.

If the essay is replete with grammar and/or punctuation errors, please refer the student to a teacher or other resource for assistance.

Thank you, again, for assisting our Scholars. You are helping us prepare these Scholars for a successful college application season! Please let us know if you have questions!

Name:

Date:

Essay Reader Volunteer Agreement

Cell Phone:

Providing a cell phone number is optional. By providing your cell phone number here, you agree to receive text messages from Crosby Scholars at this number regarding deadlines and important information.

(initial) I agree to provide constructive feedback for student essays while maintaining professionalism and unbiased opinions in a supportive tone. The shared goal here is for the student’s work to improve to help them be successful in the college application process.

(initial) I understand that in the course of my volunteer time with Crosby Scholars, I may become aware of confidential information about specific students, which may include such information as students' academic performance, behavior, finances, disabilities, and related matters. I understand and agree that I will not disclose such confidential information except to Crosby Scholars employees who have a need to know. By initialing here, you are agreeing that you have read, understand and agree to the information presented above.

(initial) If at any point, I am concerned for a student’s wellbeing, I immediately notify Crosby Scholars. Occasionally, a student will share very sensitive information (such as abuse, neglect, self-harm, violence, etc.). Notify Crosby staff immediately. In this case, you do not need to complete the review.

(initial) If at any point, I am unable to complete an Essay Review due to time constraints (or otherwise), I will immediately notify Crosby Scholars so that the essay can be reassigned to another reader in a timely manner.

If you have questions, please contact seniorprogram@crosbyscholars.org.