'Tis the season for back to school. With that comes seniors starting, or better yet finalizing their college application list.
Even if your list is not yet finalized (don't worry, there is time) you should know that you need two letters of recommendation from teachers. Most often, students choose a teacher that knew them for at least a year and taught a class in which the student did well.
If you are applying to late-deadline schools, you may be able to use a senior-year teacher, but most choose one from their junior year. These teachers tend to get inundated, so please, please follow these guidelines when asking.
- Give them notice. At least two weeks before a deadline and a month is FAR better.
- Give them something to work with. A copy of your unofficial transcript or a "brag sheet" that includes your GPA and extra curricular activities is really helpful.
- Tell them which school you are applying to and why you want to go there. It helps them to personalize the letter and make it more effective.
- Make time to talk with them, if they ask. Some teachers will need parameters for how much of your "story" they can share, or may just have some questions they would like to ask to help them write the best possible letter.
- Understand if they say, "No". There could be several reasons why a teacher feels that it would be better for you to ask someone else. They may not have time, or they may not feel that they can give you the kind of letter you want. Trust that they have your best interest at heart.
- Thank them! A hand-written short note is perfect. Even if you don't get into the school, they took the time to help you try. Please let them know that you appreciate their efforts.