How important are recommendation letters?

Hi there, I'm a junior in high school and I'm starting to think about getting recommendation letters for my college applications. How important are these letters in the overall admissions process? Also, what should I look for in a teacher or counselor to write my recommendations? Thanks for any advice!

Hi! I'm happy to share my experience with recommendation letters. They do play a significant role in the college admissions process, as they help provide a personal perspective on your character, work ethic, and achievements. Admissions officers often look for insights that may not be evident through your grades, test scores, or extracurricular activities alone. In general, a strong recommendation letter can enhance your application and give you an edge over other applicants. On the other hand, a particularly negative letter can hurt your application. When choosing someone to write your recommendation, it's best to ask a teacher or counselor who knows you well and can speak to your strengths, both academically and personally. Ideally, pick someone who has taught you in a subject related to your intended major or career, or someone who can discuss your involvement in extracurricular activities. Always give them ample time to write the letter, and consider providing them with a list of your accomplishments and goals to help them craft a more personalized letter. Good luck with your college applications!