As you prepare to send off college applications, you need to find out which schools require letters of recommendation. Colleges and universities require letters of recommendation from applicants to gain an additional perspective on the student’s abilities, character, and potential should they join their campus. These recommendation letters can provide valuable information that is not otherwise available through the student’s transcripts or test scores. They can also provide insight into the student’s academic performance in a specific subject area or their ability to work well with others.
Letters of recommendation serve as a way for admissions officers to verify that the student is a good fit for the college or university, while getting to know the student beyond their academic data. The person writing a letter of recommendation can provide relevant and personal information on the student’s motivation, drive, and passion for the field of study they are applying to.
By talking about any obstacles the student has overcome or leadership roles they have taken on, letters of recommendation can provide insight into how the student has grown and developed over time. Think of the letter of recommendation as a way for the admissions to understand the impression you have made on your teachers or advisors. High school students should know that letters of recommendation can serve as a way for the admissions office to verify the authenticity of the applicant’s achievements and to ensure that the student is a good fit for their university or college.
Overall, letters of recommendation provide valuable information that helps the admissions office make informed decisions about which students to admit to their college or university.
So what can high school students do to ensure they get a great letter of recommendation from their teachers? To stand out as a student and get a great letter of recommendation from a teacher, consider these key points.
- Develop a strong relationship with the teacher by regularly attending their class and participating in class discussions. Focus on building connections with your teachers by showing them respect by engaging with their class discussions and activities.
- Show your interest in the subject by asking questions and completing assignments to the best of your ability. Always do your best! Standout students give the best effort possible, and teachers want to write letters of recommendation for the students who work hard for their goals.
- Seek extra help or clarification if needed, and show that you are taking the initiative to understand the material. Going the extra mile to ensure you understand a specific concept or skill will stand out to your teachers.
- Take on leadership roles in class, such as being a group leader for a project. These students make a great impression on teachers.
- Show your creativity and critical thinking skills through class projects and presentations. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box in the classroom.
- Show that you are dependable and responsible by meeting deadlines and being punctual. Teachers can easily get the impression that a student who is late with their assignments, does not care about the class. Emphasize the value of their assignments by turning them in on time.
- Consider expressing your interest in a letter of recommendation before the teacher’s deadline to write it. Asking for a letter of recommendation at the last minute is not a good idea. You may consider providing them with any materials or information that would be helpful in writing the letter, such as your resume or a list of colleges you are applying to.
- Be respectful and appreciative of the teacher’s time and efforts, and thank them for writing the letter. Letters of recommendation take time, effort, and thoughtfulness from your teacher, so make sure they are aware of your gratitude.
So what are college admissions officers looking for in a great letter of recommendation? A great letter of recommendation for college applicants should possess the following qualities:
- Specificity
The letter should provide specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate the student’s abilities, character, and potential. It may provide detailed information about the student’s academic performance, work ethic, and any other relevant experiences or achievements.
- Relevance
The letter should be relevant to the student’s academic goals and should address how the student is a good fit for the college or university they are applying to.
- Objectivity
The letter of recommendation should be written by someone who knows the student well and can provide an unbiased assessment of their abilities and character.
- Positivity and Honesty
The letter should be written in a positive and honest tone and can include both strengths and weaknesses of the student.
- Written By An Appropriate Reference
Not just anyone can write a letter of recommendation. The letter should be written by someone who can speak to the student’s qualifications for the program or field of study they are applying to, such as a teacher or a mentor.
- Personal
The letter should be tailored to the student and should highlight their unique accomplishments and experiences that make them stand out as a candidate for the college or university.
Qualities of Stand Out Students
A student that stands out to high school teachers writing letters of recommendation is one who:
- Is a hard worker and takes initiative in their studies.
- This student regularly attends class, completes assignments to the best of their ability, and seeks extra help when needed.
- Shows a genuine interest and passion for the subject.
- This student asks questions, participates in class discussions, and demonstrates a deep understanding of the material.
- Is responsible and dependable
- This student meets deadlines and is punctual.
- Shows leadership qualities
- This student takes on leadership roles in class, such as being a group leader for a project, or being a leader outside of class.
- Has a positive attitude and is well-liked by their peers.
- This student is respectful and friendly towards their teachers and classmates and is well-liked by their peers.
- Is well-rounded and involved.
- This student is involved in extracurricular activities and has a good balance between academics and other commitments.
- Has a clear idea of their career goals and aspirations.
- This student has a clear idea of their career goals and aspirations, and demonstrates a strong motivation to succeed in their chosen field of study.
- Communicates with their teachers, expresses their interest in the letter of recommendation, and provides the necessary materials that would help the teacher to write the letter.
If you are seeking letters of recommendation from your mentors, advisors, or teachers, talk to them in advance and consider selecting someone who understands your goals, potential, and strengths. Now that you know how to make a great impression to your teachers and receive the best letters of recommendation possible, you can begin to make great first impressions on the college admissions board reviewing your application.
If you are looking for support throughout the college application process, you should know that FLEX College Prep’s admissions consultants can guide you through every step of the college application process. If you need support with your application and college essay or guidance to ensure you reach every deadline, FLEX’s admissions consultants are there for you. Whether you are beginning to make a list of schools that interest you, or reviewing the final drafts of your application, our team is dedicated to your success. To make sure you submit the most competitive application possible, it is crucial that each piece of the puzzle is polished and strong. Find a qualified and dedicated admissions consultant with FLEX!
Students need to stand out in the competitive admissions landscape. FLEX College Prep is a team of the best strategists in the industry and takes a holistic approach to ensure students use their pre-college years in intentional, enriching, and personally satisfying ways. Since 2001, we’ve worked with families to help students unlock their potential and find happiness, meaning, and success in college and beyond.
