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Duke University
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

What role do letters of recommendation play in college admissions?

Hi! I'm a high school junior, and I'm starting to think about who I should ask for letters of recommendation. How important are these letters in the college admissions process, and what should I look for in a teacher or counselor who would write a strong letter on my behalf? Thanks for any guidance!

a year ago

Hello! It's great to see that you're being proactive in thinking about letters of recommendation for your college application. Letters of recommendation play a significant role in the admissions process, as they provide the admissions committee an insight into your character, work ethic, and potential for success in college. They also help to give a more well-rounded picture of you as an applicant, showcasing your strengths and accomplishments beyond what can be seen in your grades and test scores.

When choosing someone to write a letter on your behalf, consider teachers or counselors who know you well, have had a positive experience with you, and can speak to your abilities and character. It's important to choose someone who can provide specific examples of your achievements, growth, or personal qualities that make you stand out. Ideally, select someone who has taught you in a core subject (like English, Math, Science, or History) or someone who has been involved in your extracurricular activities.

Remember to give your chosen recommenders plenty of time to write the letters and kindly thank them for their support. Best of luck in your college application process!

a year ago

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