How much do letters of recommendation matter?

Hi all! I'm currently a junior and starting to think about who to ask for letters of recommendation. How much do these letters actually matter in the admissions process? Should I prioritize getting recommendations from teachers in my intended major? Thanks for any help!

Hey there! It's great that you're thinking about letters of recommendation early on. From my experience with my own child's college application process, I can say that letters of recommendation do play a significant role in admissions decisions. They help provide a more well-rounded view of you as a student and person, beyond just your grades and test scores. While it's not the most important factor, it can definitely make a difference, especially in more competitive schools. As for prioritizing recommendations from teachers in your intended major, it's a good idea but not absolutely necessary. It's more important to have letters from teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths, work ethic, and character. If those teachers happen to teach subjects related to your major, that's a bonus! Good luck with your applications!