Hi everybody! I’m just starting on my college application journey and really need some guidance about letters of recommendation. Like, what kind of people should I be asking? And how do I approach them? I'm feeling a bit lost. Any advice would be super helpful!
For your letters of recommendation, you’ll want to primarily focus on asking teachers who know you well and can provide a comprehensive and positive account of your character, work ethic, and academic abilities. Usually, it's best to choose teachers in core academic subjects, specifically from your junior or senior year of high school.
Before you approach them, you should consider preparing a 'brag sheet' or resume. This includes information about your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, career goals, and anything else that you believe would be relevant for the recommender to know about you. This will help guide the recommender and ensure the letter they write is detailed and complementary to your application.
When it comes to actually asking, ideally, you want to do this in person if possible. Make sure to explain why you've chosen them specifically, like how you enjoyed their class or liked their teaching style. This can make your request more personal. If you’re unable to ask them in person, an e-mail is acceptable as well.
Finally, you want to give your recommenders plenty of time. Asking at least two months in advance is generally considered respectful. Keep the lines of communication open, follow up with them, and don't forget to express your gratitude for their support. It can be a big time commitment for them, so a thank-you note can go a long way!
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