A huge factor in the college application process is letters of recommendation. But, what exactly are letters of recommendation? These are references written by teachers, supervisors, mentors, advisors, and more! While some colleges have letters of recommendation as an option, it is always best to include them. They help colleges understand how you are as a student from the people who know you best. However, how do you know who you should ask and when?
When deciding who to choose as a recommender, keep in mind your relationship with them. For example, when asking a teacher, think about the following:
Have you previously taken any of their classes?
Have you taken any of their classes recently?
How well have you done in their class(es)?
How long have you known them?
How have their classes impacted you?
Have they taught you something that you want to pursue in college?
And most importantly:
Do you believe that they will say great things about you based on your relationship with them?
If you kept a teacher in mind and have answered these questions positively, then hooray!
You have found your first recommender! If not, it may be best to think of someone else with whom you have a better relationship. After you have chosen your future recommender, it is now time to ask them. While this may be daunting and nerve-wracking, remember, if they believe you are an exceptional student or mentee, they should not have a problem writing a great letter of recommendation for you.
The most suitable way to ask is in person. However, I understand that this may not be the circumstances for everyone due to the pandemic. Nevertheless, both in-person and when emailing, be polite! After all, teachers, supervisors, and advisors are not required to write recommendations. Lastly, ask in advance! It must be at least a month before deadlines are due to give recommenders time to write. Do not rush them as they are doing a favor for you!
You may have some difficulty writing your email or asking, but there are many templates online to guide you! Here is what I wrote when asking my recommenders:
Dear ______,
I hope this email finds you well and that you are having a wonderful school year so far! I am writing to you to request your help in the college admission process through a strong letter of recommendation. As a teacher who has seen my work ethic, diligence, and involvement in many classes, you would be my best reference. Starting from ___(grade year)___, ___(class)_____, your class has taught me leadership, teamwork, organization skills, and most importantly, the love for ____(subject)____! Ever since my interest has only blossomed. I only hope to pursue this passion in college, in which I seek to major in ________! I would appreciate it if you would consider this request in helping me with the college admission process. Thank you for your time, and I hope you have a great day!
All the best,
_____(your name)_____
If they have responded and gladly said yes, congratulations! You now have a person writing a strong letter of recommendation for you. If they have said they are unable at this time do not fret. I am sure many other mentors whom you know personally that you can ask. Nevertheless, their response requires a follow-up. If they have accepted your request , make it notable in your response that you can assist them. Although you may have a close relationship with them, they may not know what else is going on in your life outside of the workplace or classroom. To assist them in their letters, you can provide them a student fact sheet about yourself or your resume. These documents should include but are not limited to:
Extra curricular activities: brief description, hour(s) per week spent, school year(s) participated, position (if applicable)
Community service: brief description, school year(s) participated
Employment: school year(s) participated, hour(s) per week spent
If you will be a first-generation student
If you are enrolled or eligible for Free Reduced Lunch Program (FRLP)
If your family receives public assistance
If you feel that your courses, grades, and test scores accurately represent your academic potential and why
If you have faces any significant challenges
Majors interested in
After you have decided to send more information about yourself, you can finally add them as a recommender on your college application(s). While many colleges have different programs to send their applications in, they all require the same information: recommender’s full name, email, and role to you. The college applications will then contact and request your recommenders via their email. They will then submit their letters on their own. A quick note - since recommenders are sending in their letters on their own, you are not allowed or able to read them. They are strictly only for colleges, so please ensure you have chosen someone you know will write a great letter! Another note - ask, and recommenders will submit to each of your colleges. You do not have to ask a recommender for each college.
Lastly, say “thank you”! Your recommenders have put the time in to write about your personality and strengths.. So please emphasize that you appreciate that! I recommend giving them a card, in person or by email to show your gratitude. However, any sign of gratefulness is recognized as long as you show it!
- By Raenalyn Cruz-Balleza
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