Letter of Recommendation Samples?

Hi everyone. I'm kind of stuck on who to ask for letters of recommendation. Could you share examples of good recommendation letters so I know what to aim for, and potentially who to ask in my school? Thanks in advance!

The process of requesting letters of recommendation can feel daunting, so it's good you're putting some thought into it! College admissions committees usually expect one or two letters from teachers and one from your school counselor. Remember, these letters should highlight your academic abilities as well as your character, commitment, and dedication to your pursuits.

Although I cannot share specific letter samples, I can outline what an effective letter usually includes:

1. An Introduction: This section shows how the recommender knows the student—how long, how closely, and in what capacity. This helps put the rest of the letter in context.

2. Academic Performance: The recommender should indicate how the student performs in a classroom setting, providing specific examples if possible—how the student contributes to class discussions, how they handle challenges, their enthusiasm for learning, etc.

3. Extracurricular Involvement: This section can showcase the student's dedication to activities outside of the classroom, showing the breadth of their interests and their capacity for commitment and leadership.

4. Personal Qualities: The recommender should highlight positive aspects of the student's character. This could range from resilience to creativity and compassion.

5. Summary and Endorsement: The letter should conclude with a summary of why the recommender believes the student would excel in a college setting.

Make sure to choose someone familiar with your work and who will be able to articulate not just your academic achievements, but also your personal qualities and growth. A fantastic letter of recommendation is usually from someone who can tell a compelling story about you.

Asking for the letter is the other significant part of this. When making the ask, give your recommender plenty of time (preferably 2-3 months) before the letter is due, and provide them with a resume or a list of accomplishments to guide their writing. Also, don't shy away from discussing with them what you hope they'll highlight to align with your overall college application narrative.