Why Colleges Require Letters And How To Request A Letter
Letters of recommendation help complete the picture of you, the person beyond the transcript and test scores. Many colleges require at least one or two teacher recommendations. Some may require a letter from a certain teacher such as an English teacher, while others just indicate a letter from a teacher in an academic area. Above all, it is important that you ask a teacher who knows you well and who can write a detailed letter about your accomplishments in his or her classroom.
Letters from junior or senior teachers are generally preferable. Consider teachers in core academic subjects, such such as history, foreign language, math, science, English, or other social sciences. Give each person you ask a fair chance to decline your request. Someone may feel they cannot write a helpful letter, or they may have too many other requests and realize they don't have time. There are a few rules you should remember when asking for a letter:
- Make sure you request the recommendation well in advance of the deadline. Allow at least two weeks or three weeks.
- Give the teacher the completed Teacher Recommendation Form.If the school does not provide one, use this.
- Give the teacher a Teacher Recommendation Envelope (if the school provides one)for each recommendation you need. If the school doesn't provide an envelope, write the name and address of where you wish the recommendation to be sent on the front and give the envelope and any form to the teacher.
- It would be very thoughtful to ask the teacher if the school will pay for postage for him/her to mail the recommendation. If it does not, add a stamp.
- Remember that your classmates are asking many of the same teachers for letters, so an early request is a good idea.
- Be thoughtful, organized and grateful. Write a thank you note to teachers that write a letter for you.
Colleges often ask teachers the following questions:
- What words first come to mind to describe the student?
- What has been his/her most valuable contribution to your class?
- Is the student motivated to learn? What is the depth of his/her intellectual interests and capacity for growth?
- Compared to other college-bound students you have taught, how would you rate this student's:
- Motivation
- Creative, original thought
- Initiative
- Effective class discussion
- Disciplined work habits
- Potential for growth
- Academic achievement
Peer Recommendations
If a school requires a peer recommendation, be considerate of the peer you ask to write on your behalf. Give this person at least two weeks notice as well. The friend you ask should be someone who can write a balanced assessment of your abilities and what makes you stand out to them.
A Word of Caution about Extra Letters
Extra letters of recommendation may be helpful if the person writing knows you well. An employer, a coach, or priest may be in a position to provide helpful information. If an alumnus of the college knows you well, then their letter may provide some insight.
Don't overdo the extra letters! The only reason to submit more letters than requested is if they are needed to provide a new perspective or evidence of a special talent or skill.
