Tips for getting the best recommendation letters?

As I'm starting to think about college applications, I wanted to ask if anyone has any tips for getting the best recommendation letters? How do I approach my teachers and what should I be doing to ensure they write a strong letter for me?

To get the best recommendation letters, follow these steps:

1. Choose teachers who know you well: Select teachers who have taught you in subjects where you excelled or showed significant improvement. Ideally, they should have known you for a year or more and have interacted with you inside and outside the classroom.

2. Start early: Approach your teachers as early as possible (preferably in the spring of junior year), so that they have enough time to craft a thoughtful and detailed letter without the stress of last-minute requests. Asking early also shows respect for their time and work.

3. Provide context: When you ask a teacher for a recommendation, make sure to provide them with a copy of your personal statement/college essay, as well as a resume or record of your activities, achievements, and awards, including specific examples that can highlight your strengths and accomplishments. This information will help them better understand you as a whole person.

4. Request a meeting: If possible, request a meeting with your teachers to discuss your goals and plans for college. During this meeting, you might bring up specific anecdotes or examples of your work that they may want to include in their recommendation. Having such a conversation will also help them more concretely understand your aspirations and tailor their letter to support your application.

5. Be polite and professional: When asking for a recommendation, be polite, professional, and appreciative. Be sure to give them any necessary submission guidelines, such as the due date and where to submit the letter. Even if you are very close to your teacher, make sure to maintain a respectful tone, and follow up with a thank-you note after they've agreed to write your letter.

If you want tips on how to thank your recommender(s), check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-thank-teachers-who-wrote-recommendation-letters

6. Plan for backups: Have a backup plan by identifying at least one or two additional teachers or mentors who could write a recommendation for you in case a teacher is unavailable or declines your request.

7. Don't forget non-academic recommenders: While most colleges prioritize academic recommendations, you can also ask a coach, club advisor, or job supervisor for supplementary letters to showcase different types of achievements or skills that may not be evident from your academic record. However, make sure any supplemental letters genuinely enhance your application, and convey information that can't already be found elsewhere - admissions officers are busy people, and they won't appreciate being forced to read redundant information.

By following these tips and being proactive in showcasing your strengths, you'll be able to approach your teachers confidently and ensure they have everything they need to write strong recommendation letters that will support your college applications. Good luck!