Advice on College Recommendations?

Hi everyone, I'm starting to think about who I should ask to write my college recommendation letters. Any advice on who to ask? Should it be a teacher of a subject I want to major in, or does it not matter too much?

When selecting teachers to write your college recommendation letters, the most important factor is choosing teachers who know you well and can provide detailed, personal insights about your qualities and skills in their endorsement. This does not only translate to being a student who is exceptional in their class but also goes beyond that—having participated well in class discussions, demonstrated curiosity in the subject, or showcased exceptional commitment and perseverance in tackling tough problems, for example.

Some colleges indicate a preference for recommendation letters from teachers who taught you in your junior year, as these teachers have seen you perform in a high school academic setting quite recently and can likely provide a more nuanced understanding of your abilities. However, if you have a teacher from earlier in high school who you feel knows you better or has unique insights to share about you, it can be advantageous to get their recommendation as well.

The subjects your recommendation letters come from might also play a role. If you plan to major in a STEM field and you have a science or math teacher who can speak to your talents, then their letter could have an impact. However, the rule of thumb should still be choosing teachers who know you the best and can speak most favorably about you. It's usually advisable to aim for a mix—one STEM and one humanities if possible— to give a more rounded view of your abilities and your potential contributions to the school.

Finally, it's essential to ask your recommenders well in advance of when you need the letter to give them ample time to craft a thoughtful recommendation. Always remember to express gratitude (a thank-you note is a great idea) afterward for their time and effort.