What is a Letter of Recommendation for College Admission & How to Obtain It?

College admissions require you to find teachers or other individuals who can vouch for you through letters of recommendation. These letters are not just to verify your honesty but to reveal who you are beyond grades and scores. The admissions committee wants to know what uninterested parties who have known you for a while think of you and who is willing to speak on your behalf.

What a Good Recommendation Letter Looks Like

A good recommendation letter is written by someone who has spent time with you and can write positively about you. The teacher should tailor the letter to fit the college you are applying to. Specific examples of your skills and experiences should be included to set your letter apart. Avoid cliches and provide evidence to back up any statements made about you.

When and Whom to Ask for a Recommendation

Contact a teacher for a reference at least a month before your earliest submission date, preferably even earlier. Consider the college’s requirements and ask the appropriate person, such as a school counselor or subject-specific teacher. Choose someone who has known you for a while and knows you outside the classroom, like a club advisor or director of a play you were in.

Obtaining a Letter of Recommendation for College Admission

To present a well-rounded personality through your letters, seek recommendations from different sources. For instance, if you’re applying for a science program, get a letter from your Chemistry teacher to showcase your passion for science and another from your language teacher to demonstrate your communication skills. These letters filled with optimism and enthusiasm will boost your chances of admission.

Remember, a strong letter of recommendation can make a significant difference in your college application, so choose wisely and give your recommenders ample time to write a thoughtful letter for you.