Hey, so I need to ask a couple of my teachers for letters of recommendation for college, but I'm super nervous about it and I'm not sure how to approach them. What's the best way to ask, when should I do it, and should I provide them with any additional materials to help them write a good letter?
The process of asking for a letter of recommendation can definitely be nerve-racking, but approaching it with a plan can help make it less intimidating. Here's a step-by-step guide on the best way to ask for a letter of recommendation:
1. Timing: Ideally, you should ask for a letter of recommendation 2-3 months before the college application deadline. This gives your teachers ample time to think about and write a thoughtful letter without feeling rushed.
2. Selecting Teachers: Choose teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths, both academically and personally. It's usually best to ask teachers from your junior or senior year, as they have the most recent experience with you.
3. Approach: When asking for a recommendation, it's important to be polite and respectful. You can either ask your teacher in person or via email. Be sure to express gratitude for their time and consideration, regardless of whether they agree to write the letter.
4. Context: Explain the purpose of the recommendation and any specific details they should include such as the colleges or scholarships you're applying to, as well as any highlight-worthy achievements or contributions you've made during their class.
5. Additional Materials: To help your teachers write a strong letter, provide them with a "brag sheet" containing your accomplishments, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, awards, and anything else you think is relevant. Additionally, you might want to offer them a recent paper, project, or exam you completed in their class as a reminder of your work.
6. Follow Up: After initially asking, give your teachers a week or two to decide. Politely follow up in case they haven't responded or made a decision yet. If they agree, thank them again and provide additional information if needed. It’s also a good idea to periodically check in with them to see if they need any more information or assistance.
7. Gratitude: Once the letters have been submitted, be sure to thank your teachers again for their support, either through a handwritten note, email, or in person. Let them know the outcome of your college application process and how much you appreciate their help.
Good luck on your college applications, and remember to approach this process with gratitude and respect for your teachers' time and effort.
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