Letters of Recommendation Process

I've started thinking about college applications and I'm not quite sure how the whole letters of recommendation thing works. Can someone explain the process of getting recommendations and who I should ask? How do I ensure they write a strong letter that really highlights my strengths?

The process of obtaining letters of recommendation involves a few steps. Keep in mind that you'll generally need 2-3 letters, usually from teachers and occasionally from a counselor or an extracurricular supervisor. Here's a simple outline of the process:

1. Identify potential recommenders: Think about teachers or other adults who know you well and can speak to your academic, extracurricular, or personal strengths. Ideally, these should be teachers from your junior or senior year and in core academic subjects. They should also have a positive impression of you and your abilities, of course.

2. Ask recommenders early: It's best to approach potential recommenders at least a couple of months before the deadline, so that they have enough time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. You can ask them in person or through email, but in person is generally better, and either way make sure to be polite and appreciative of their time. If they agree to write the letter, provide them with any required forms and instructions from the colleges you're applying to.

3. Provide recommenders with helpful resources: It's a good idea to give your recommenders additional information, such as an updated resume, a list of your achievements and extracurricular involvement, and any important details or anecdotes you'd like them to include. Moreover, you could share your plans for the future or specific goals related to the colleges you're applying to, so they have a better understanding of your ambitions and can cater their letter accordingly.

4. Show gratitude: After the letters have been submitted, thank your recommenders with a handwritten thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their time and effort. Additionally, keep them in the loop about your admissions results—this gesture will show your gratitude and maintain a positive relationship with them. For tips on how to show your appreciation to your recommenders, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-thank-teachers-who-wrote-recommendation-letters/.

To ensure strong letters, choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your work, accomplishments, or character. The stronger their connection with you, the more personal and compelling their letter will be. Additionally, giving them ample time and proper resources will enable them to write a thorough and effective recommendation. Remember, while you cannot control what they write, providing them with accurate information and maintaining open communication will maximize the odds that their letters best highlight your strengths.

Best of luck!