Letters of Recommendation: How to Ask (and Who to Ask)

With the Common App open, it’s time to send out requests for letters of recommendation. A compelling letter can highlight your strengths and paint a vivid picture of who you are as a student and a person. But how do you go about asking for one? And who should you even ask?

Who to Ask: Choosing the Right Recommenders

The best letters come from teachers who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and character. Aim for teachers from your junior year, as they have the most recent experience with your work. Consider these factors when making your choice:

• Core Subject Teachers: Most colleges prefer recommendations from teachers in core academic subjects like English, math, science, social studies, or a world language.

• Strong Rapport: Choose a teacher with whom you had a good relationship. This doesn't necessarily mean you got an easy A, but rather that you actively participated in their class, sought help when needed, and showed a genuine interest in the subject.

• Unique Perspective: If you're applying to a specific program (e.g., engineering), asking a relevant science or math teacher is a smart move. Similarly, if you're a standout student in an elective, that teacher can provide a different, valuable perspective.

  
  

While teachers are often the primary source for college recommendations, there are other adults who can provide unique and valuable insights into your character, work ethic, and abilities. These "other" recommenders can be particularly effective when they complement your teacher recommendations and highlight a different aspect of your life.

Here are some other people to consider asking for a college recommendation letter:

• Your School Counselor: Your counselor can speak to your academic record in a holistic context, including your course load, grades, and school-wide involvement.

• A Coach: If you're an athlete, a coach can speak to your dedication, teamwork, and leadership skills on and off the field. A letter from a coach can demonstrate how you handle pressure, overcome challenges, and contribute to a team's success—all qualities that colleges value.

• An Employer or Supervisor: If you have a part-time job or internship, a supervisor can provide a professional recommendation that highlights your responsibility, initiative, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting. This is especially useful for students who have a clear career path in mind.

• A Club or Activity Advisor: The advisor for a club, volunteer organization, or extracurricular activity you've been heavily involved in can write a powerful letter. They can discuss your passion, creativity, and contributions to a cause you care about, which can be particularly impactful for students who demonstrate strong leadership and commitment.

• A Mentor or Community Leader: This could be a leader in your faith community, a scout troop leader, or a mentor you've worked with on a special project. This type of recommendation can offer a personal perspective on your character and values outside of a traditional academic or professional environment.

  
  

Important Note: Before asking a "non-teacher" for a recommendation, check the specific requirements of the colleges you are applying to. Some schools have strict rules about who can submit a letter, while others are more flexible and will even accept an "additional" or "optional" letter. Always prioritize the required recommendations first, and use supplemental letters strategically to provide a well-rounded view of who you are.

When and How to Ask: The Etiquette of Asking

Teachers are often inundated with requests, especially in the fall. The ideal time to ask is before school starts, ideally in late August. This gives teachers ample time to write a thoughtful letter without the stress of a full academic schedule.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to approach them:

1. Ask in Person: A face-to-face conversation (or a video call if they're not available in person) is the most respectful way to ask. Start by saying something like, "I'm starting my college applications, and I was wondering if you would be able to write a strong letter of recommendation for me."

2. Be Prepared for "No": While rare, a teacher might decline if they don't feel they know you well enough to write a strong letter. Don't take it personally; it's a sign of their integrity. Simply thank them for their honesty and move on to your next choice.

   
   

What to Provide: A "Brag Sheet" 

Once a teacher agrees, you need to make their job as easy as possible. Providing them with a packet of information will help them write a more detailed and specific letter. This packet should include:

• A "Brag Sheet" or Resume: This should list your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, volunteer work, awards, and any jobs you've held. This helps them connect your classroom performance with your out-of-school life.

• A List of the Colleges You're Applying To: Include deadlines and any specific instructions for submitting the letter.

• Your Personal Statement or Main Essay: This gives them insight into the narrative you're presenting to colleges and allows them to reinforce your key themes.

• A Brief Reminder of Your Time in Their Class: Include specific projects, papers, or moments where you excelled or grew. For example, "I really enjoyed our unit on Shakespeare and was proud of the paper I wrote on Hamlet."

• A Thank You Note: Always, always, always follow up with a thank-you note, whether the letter is completed or not. A small token of appreciation, like a card, goes a long way.

  
  

Asking for a recommendation can feel daunting, but by being thoughtful, organized, and respectful of your teachers' time, you can secure letters that will significantly strengthen your college applications. Good luck!