What role do recommendation letters play in college admissions?

Hey there, I'm a junior, and I've been wondering about the importance of recommendation letters in the college application process. How important are they, and what should I look for in a teacher to write one for me? Thanks for your help!

Hi! Great question about recommendation letters. They do play a significant role in the college application process, as they provide the admissions committee with additional insight into your character, work ethic, and accomplishments from someone who knows you well in an academic setting. Essentially, recommendation letters serve as a testament to your abilities and potential to succeed in college, from the perspective of someone who has observed and interacted with you in a classroom environment. While your grades and test scores can reflect your academic abilities, recommendation letters can help paint a more complete picture of you as a student and person. When looking for a teacher to write your recommendation letter, it's important to choose someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths, your growth, and your overall character. Ideally, this would be a teacher from a core subject (e.g., math, science, English, or history) who has taught you within the last couple of years. Having a strong relationship with the teacher, having contributed meaningfully to class discussions, and having demonstrated a genuine interest in the subject are all factors to consider when selecting a teacher to ask for a recommendation. I hope this helps, and best of luck with your college applications!