Apr 7 (edited) • 🎓 Strategy Posts
2️⃣✉️ Rec Letters 102: Who to Ask & How to Get a Strong “Yes”
You’ve learned what makes a great letter and why they matter. Now let’s get practical: who should you ask, when, and how do you set them up to write a letter that actually adds value to your application? Let’s break it down ⬇️
🧑🏫 Who Should You Ask?
Colleges usually want 1–2 teacher letters and 1 counselor letter. Here’s how to choose the right teachers:
✅ Choose teachers who’ve taught you in core subjects (English, Math, Science, History, or Foreign Language)—especially in Grade 11 if possible. They’ve seen your growth most recently.
✅ Prioritize teachers who know you well. Did you ask questions in class? Did you improve? Contribute to discussions? That’s what they'll write about.
✅ Match your application narrative. If you’re applying as a Computer Science major, a math or CS teacher who saw your initiative is ideal. But a humanities teacher who saw your creativity and communication could add powerful depth.
✅ Bonus: If you're applying to a major outside your school strengths (e.g. Business, Environmental Science), choose someone who can speak to your potential and intellectual curiosity in that direction—even if it's not the obvious subject.
📅 When to Ask?
🗓️ Late spring of Grade 11 (April–May) is best. It gives teachers time to write over the summer.
🛑 Don’t wait until fall of Grade 12—by then, teachers are flooded with requests. Late requests can lead to rushed (and generic) letters.
💬 How to Ask
Ask in person if possible—or via a thoughtful email if not.
What to include:
- Why you’re asking them: “I really enjoyed your History class and the debates we had—it helped me grow as a thinker.”
- Your college plans: “I’m applying as a Political Science major and would love if you’d write a recommendation for me.”
- Why their perspective matters: “You’ve seen my growth, and I think you could speak to my curiosity and leadership.”
💡 Be sincere, specific, and appreciative.
📄 What to Give Them After They Say Yes
Once they agree, send a short follow-up packet that makes it easier for them to write a great letter:
📌 A 1-page résumé (your activities, GPA, future goals, intended major)
📌 A short “Class Highlights” doc with:
- A few bullet points on what you learned or contributed in their class
- 2–3 qualities you hope they’ll write about (e.g., curiosity, resilience)
- A few specific examples of how you showed those traits
Optional but helpful: a paragraph on your application narrative (e.g., “I’m applying as a future environmental engineer with a focus on sustainability and community impact”).
💭 Common Concerns
❓ “What if I didn’t get an A?” No worries. Effort, curiosity, and growth matter more than a perfect grade.
❓ “My teachers only taught me for one year—is that okay?” Yes! Most students only have a teacher for one year. Focus on who saw your engagement.
❓ “What if I don’t have a counselor?” That’s fine—many international students don’t. Choose a senior teacher or school admin who knows your full profile. They can write your counselor letter.
Next up: Answering your top questions—like who uploads the letter, what happens if your school doesn’t use Common App, and whether you can submit an extra letter!
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2️⃣✉️ Rec Letters 102: Who to Ask & How to Get a Strong “Yes”
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