Junior College Prep 5/24/18

Letters of Recommendation

Why Do Colleges Value Recommendations? They reveal things about you that grades and test scores cannot They provide personal opinions of your character

Counselor Recommendation Letter Mrs. Ruark will write a letter for each of you. Step 1: Complete the Junior Counselor Recommendation Request Form and provide as much detail as possible. Step 2: Give the form to Mrs. Ruark before the end of the year. Step 3: Make sure that your resume is up to date and attach it to the form.

How to Choose Teacher Recommenders You must choose two core course teachers from different academic areas (Math, Science, Foreign Language, English, History). You may request a third letter from a non-core course teacher if he/she teaches a subject that you would like to major in. Choose teachers that you have a strong and positive relationship with. Make sure you were successful in their courses. Eleventh grade teachers are often a good choice for writing recommendations because they have seen you perform in a higher-level course, they may have taught you over several years, and perhaps know you in multiple capacities. Choose teachers in subjects that are relevant to your academic goals. Consider asking a teacher who also knows you outside the classroom. For example, a teacher who directed you in a play or advised your club can make a great reference.

How to Request Letters from Teachers Step 1: Choose two teachers Step 2: Complete the Junior Teacher Recommendation Request Forms and provide as much detail as possible. Step 3: Give the forms to your teachers before the end of the year. Step 4: Make sure that your resume is up to date and attach it to the forms. Step 5: Make the request in person. Say something like: “I really enjoyed your class. I've learned a lot from you and feel like you've gotten to know me well. I would be really flattered if you could write me a strong letter of recommendation for my college applications." 

How to Get the Best Recommendations from Teachers Make it easy for your teachers to give positive, detailed information about your achievements and your potential by refreshing their memory: Talk to them about your class participation. Remind them of specific work or projects you’re proud of. Tell them what you learned in class. Mention any challenges you overcame. Give them the information they need to provide specific examples of your work.

Other Recommenders Some colleges will allow you to submit letters of recommendation from other adults, such as an employer, a coach, or an advisor from an activity outside of school. This is not a requirement. If you decide to do this, make sure that person knows you very well and can speak to your strengths. Give that person your resume.

Senior Year Read each of your college applications carefully. Schools will specify how many letters are required and who they can be from. Waive your right to view recommendation letters on your application forms. Admission officers will trust them more if you haven’t seen them. Complete Senior Teacher Recommendation Request Forms and a Senior Counselor Recommendation Request Form and turn them in at least a month before your first deadline.

Senior Year Continued The forms will provide information about your senior year, application deadlines, and how to submit your letters. Common App - You will invite the teacher to complete the letter of recommendation electronically. They will receive a link in their email where they can upload the letter. Other App - Check the school’s website to see how they prefer letters to be submitted. Some will have an electronic system like the Common App. Some will prefer letters to be mailed. Follow up with your references a week or so before recommendations are due to make sure your letters have been sent. Once you’ve decided which college to attend, write thank-you notes. Tell your references where you’re going and let them know how much you appreciate their support.

Junior College Prep Survey