Letters of Recommendation: Who to ask?

Hey, I'm kind of stressed about who I should ask for letters of recommendation. Who would be the best people to ask, like teachers, coaches, or other people in my life? And how many letters should I get?

It's completely normal to feel stressed about letters of recommendation, but don't worry! The process can be quite manageable once you break it down step by step.

In general, it's best to seek out letters of recommendation from individuals who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, personal qualities, and accomplishments. Here's a quick breakdown:

1. Academic Recommendations: Most colleges will require one or two academic recommendations, typically from core subject teachers (i.e., Math, Science, English, History, or a foreign language) who have taught you in junior or senior year of high school. These teachers should be able to provide insight into your work ethic, classroom engagement, and intellectual curiosity.

2. Additional Recommendations: Some colleges may allow for additional, non-academic letters of recommendation. These can be from coaches, club advisors, or other adults (excluding family members) who have supervised or worked with you in a significant capacity. Only submit these if you believe they'll add a unique perspective to your application that your academic recommenders couldn't provide.

As for the number of letters to get, you should stick to the requirements of the colleges you're applying to. Most schools will ask for two academic recommendations, but this number can vary – make sure to double-check each college's specific requests. If a college allows for additional recommendations, consider whether the extra letter will truly strengthen your application or if it'll just repeat the information in your academic recommendations.

When you request a recommendation, make sure to give your recommenders ample notice (at least a month if possible) and provide them with any necessary information or forms to help them write a strong letter on your behalf. Be sure to maintain open communication with them and express your gratitude for their time and effort.

Good luck!