Counselor Recommendations

Alright guys, I'm at the stage where I'm starting to think about who to ask for recommendation letters. My counselor is definitely on the list since they've helped me a lot over the years, but I'm not really sure what to expect from a counselor recommendation letter. Does anybody know what they generally include? Should I prompt them about certain aspects I want them to highlight? Thanks in advance!

A counselor recommendation tends to offer a broader perspective on your performance and character, compared to a teacher's recommendation which focuses more on your performance in a specific subject. Your counselor sees your overall academic performance, involvement in school activities, and how you interact with your peers and school staff. Their recommendation typically includes a review of your academic performance, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, as well as any notable personal growth they've observed.

Speaking with your counselor about the recommendation is a great idea. You can certainly give them some direction on what you'd like highlighted, especially regarding your strengths, specific achievements, or aspects of your personal growth you're particularly proud of. It's also a good idea to share with them your academic interests, career goals, or key experiences that have shaped you, as these can provide context for their letter. Be sure to also provide them with enough time to write a thoughtful recommendation.

Remember, though, that this letter should be an honest representation of you, so be genuine about your strengths and experiences. You want it to complement, not repeat, the rest of your application, giving the admissions team a well-rounded picture of who you are.