What's the secret to the best reference letter for scholarships?

I'm in the process of securing a reference letter for a scholarship and want to make sure it highlights my strengths effectively. What should my reference include to ensure it stands out in the selection process?

A stellar letter of recommendation for a scholarship can take your application to the next level. Here are some insights to get the best possible letter:

1. Choose Your Recommender Wisely: Opt for individuals who can provide specific examples of your skills, character, and accomplishments. These can include teachers, coaches, employers, or anyone else who's mentored or guided you.

2. Communicate Your Goals: Share with your recommender the specifics of the scholarship, its mission, and how it aligns with your aspirations. Let them know about the key qualities that the scholarship committee is seeking in candidates, such as leadership skills, academic acumen, service to the community, etc.

3. Provide Information: Give your recommender a 'brag sheet' - a document that recaps your achievements, skills, experiences, and goals. This can include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, community service, internships, or work experiences.

4. Emphasize Your Achievements: Encourage your recommender to focus not only on what you've accomplished, but also on how you achieved it. For instance, if your recommender is highlighting your leadership skills, they should provide instances where you demonstrated these skills.

5. Make It Specific: Generic praise often falls flat. Detailed stories or anecdotes that portray your qualities can be a powerful tool in a recommendation letter. A unique account of a project where you showcased leadership, for instance, will make the letter more compelling.

6. Discuss Challenges and Growth: It's also beneficial if the writer discusses challenges that you have encountered and how you've grown or learned from these experiences.

Remember, for all this to transpire seamlessly, you need to give your recommender ample time to craft this letter - at least a month before the deadline. Make sure to send a kind note of thanks after they complete the letter. It's a significant favor that requires significant time and thoughtfulness.