How to request a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher?

I'm planning to ask one of my teachers for a letter of recommendation for college applications soon. Any tips on how to properly approach this? What should I include in my request to make it easier for my teacher to write a strong recommendation?

Approaching a teacher for a letter of recommendation can seem intimidating, but it's a common request that teachers expect from students. Here are some tips for making the process smoother and ensuring you get a strong recommendation:

1. Choose the right teacher: Pick a teacher who knows you well and has taught you in a subject that is relevant to your intended major or college application. Ideally, they should have taught you recently (preferably within the last two years) so their insight is up-to-date.

2. Ask in person if possible: While email may be more comfortable, asking in person shows respect, enthusiasm, and genuine interest. However, if in-person requests are not feasible, a thoughtful email will work as well.

3. Give plenty of notice: Request the letter at least a month (preferably more) before the deadline. Teachers usually have to write multiple letters of recommendation, and they appreciate the extra time to craft a strong and personalized letter. If you're applying early anywhere, asking at the very beginning of your senior year is likely wise.

4. Be respectful and polite: When you approach your teacher, start by expressing your appreciation for their teaching. Explain why you think they would be the best person to write your recommendation, by highlighting specific instances where they have positively influenced your learning or growth.

5. Provide necessary information: To make it easier for your teacher to write a strong recommendation, prepare a packet of materials, including:

- A list of colleges you're applying to, with the relevant deadlines for each.

- Your resume or CV outlining your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant work or volunteer experiences.

- A brief statement about your future goals and what you hope to achieve in college.

- Any specific traits or accomplishments you would like the teacher to focus on, if applicable.

- Information about submission guidelines or platforms (such as the Common App).

6. Offer to help and follow up: Let your teacher know you're available to provide any additional information they might need and offer to assist in any other way (within reason). Don't nag them about your letter, though - teachers have a lot on their plates, and they're doing you a big favor by helping out with your college application process. If you send them emails asking if they've written your letter yet, you may come across as not trusting them to stay organized on their own, which could rub them the wrong way.

7. Show appreciation: After your teacher agrees to write the letter, thank them in person or send a thank you email, expressing gratitude for their time and effort. Once you receive your college decisions, inform them about your acceptance(s) and, once again, thank them for their support. You can read more about how to appropriately thank a teacher for a rec letter on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-thank-teachers-who-wrote-recommendation-letters.

By following these tips, you'll make the recommendation process smoother for both you and your teacher while maximizing the chances of getting a strong and well-crafted letter of recommendation. Good luck!