MIT Letters of Recommendation Tips?

Hey everyone! I'm working on my application for MIT and I need to get some letters of recommendation. Does anyone have tips or ideas on what MIT looks for in recommendation letters? Anything specific they value? Thanks!

MIT highly values recommendation letters that provide a detailed, personalized, and honest evaluation of the applicant. Recommenders should be able to speak directly to your strengths, character, work ethic, intellect, and contributions to your academic or extracurricular activities. Here are a few tips for ensuring your MIT recommendation letters best represent you:

1. Choose recommenders who know you well: Pick teachers or mentors who can provide specific examples and anecdotes that highlight your abilities, potential, and personal qualities, rather than someone who only knows you on a surface level.

2. Provide a diverse perspective: MIT requires two letters of recommendation from teachers they suggest obtaining one from a math or science teacher and one from a humanities, social science, or language teacher. This helps them understand your strengths in different academic areas.

3. Optional third recommendation: Consider getting a third, optional letter from an individual who can speak to your talents and accomplishments in areas outside of the classroom, such as extracurricular activities, community service, or work experiences, if you feel it will add a unique perspective to your application.

4. Communicate with your recommenders: Provide your recommenders with a list of your achievements, activities, and goals to help them tailor their recommendations. Also, talk to them about why you're interested in MIT, so they can highlight how you would be a suitable fit for the institute.

5. Give them ample time: Make sure to ask for your recommendations well in advance, ideally at least a month before the application deadline, so your recommenders have enough time to craft thoughtful and detailed letters.

Remember, MIT is looking for authentic and personalized letters of recommendation that provide a comprehensive picture of you as a student and individual. With these tips in mind, you can help ensure that your recommenders present you in the best possible light in your application. Good luck!