Letters of Recommendation: A Critical Component of Your College Application

Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in the holistic review process of your college application. They provide admissions officers with valuable insights into your child's academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential contributions to the campus community. The primary goal of a recommendation letter is to set an applicant apart by showcasing their holistic qualities. Admissions representatives emphasize the need for concise, unique, and well-structured letters that delve into a student's character, intellectual pursuits, and positive traits.

First off, it's not about having your teacher say "This is one of the best students this year." That is what almost every teacher will say. So the comment comes off as ordinary or average...bland even.

Instead, you should be aiming for something far more impactful. Imagine your teacher writing "When this student leaves the classroom, the level of participation grinds to a halt."

This kind of insight demonstrates not just your academic excellence, but it also highlights a level of intellectual curiosity that sets you apart. 

So how do you get your letters of recommendation from good, but bland, to outstanding letters of recommendation?

Build Genuine Connections:
I cannot underscore the significance of forging real relationships with teachers. Actively participating in class, attending office hours, and demonstrating a genuine thirst for knowledge can contribute to outstanding recommendation letters that go beyond generic praise. Parents – stop asking your child what they learned in school. Instead ask your child what questions they asked their teachers today. The goal isn’t to be the best student in this year's class. Rather, your child is aiming to be the best student of that teacher’s entire career.
 
Choose the Right Recommenders
Carefully select individuals who can provide specific and meaningful anecdotes about your child's academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth. Generally speaking I suggest choosing teachers of subjects similar to what your child intends to major in at college. Otherwise, consider teachers who have taught your child in challenging courses, coaches who have witnessed your child's leadership skills, or mentors who have guided your child's personal or professional development.
 
Timing Your Requests
Ideally at the start of senior year, start asking for letters of recommendation. This will allow your child's recommenders ample time to craft thoughtful and well-written letters. Aim to secure the recommendations at least a month before your child's application deadlines.
 
Help Your Recommenders
Your child can assist the recommenders by providing them with a resume or brag sheet highlighting their accomplishments, awards, and areas of expertise. Share any relevant information about their background, academic goals, or extracurricular activities that the recommender may not be aware of.

I recommend using the "Thank You Note" method. Before asking for a recommendation letter, write a short thank you note to your teachers in advance. In the letter, be genuine and thank them for what you've learned from them. Share specific moments or triumphs you're especially proud of. Then tell them about your college goals and ask them for a recommendation letter. By using this method, you're not only making them feel appreciated, but you're also supplying them the specific details that they can add to their letter. 
 
Quality over Quantity
The length of a recommendation letter does not equate to its quality. Admissions officers prefer vivid language, specific examples, insights, and context. Recommenders are advised to avoid unnecessary information and focus on providing a detailed, thoughtful recommendation.
 
In two paragraphs include specifics such as these:

• Relate a story or incident that demonstrates the student’s character: personal strengths, intellectual interests, integrity or leadership ability. If the student has experienced disappointment or failure, how did they react?
• Describe the student’s personality. How do they interact with teachers and peers?
• Reflect on their character, less about their achievements.
• What will you remember most about this student?

 
Follow up with a sincere statement recommending the student.
  
Below are two examples of powerful letters of recommendation:
 
To Whom It May Concern:
I have started to write this letter of recommendation for Noah so many times. I have so many stories that illustrate his depth of character, from standing tall when (incorrectly) accused as a Freshman for exposing drug users on campus to swimming at a competition meet with an illness that would require a weeklong hospital stay just to help the team win that day. Each time I have stopped because I felt my words were uninspiring compared to the description that Noah deserves. Tonight, however, as I think about his next year at college, I know I must say:
 
There are few people in this world with as much fortitude as Noah. I have been lucky enough to watch him grow as a student these past four years. He is incredibly hard on himself, demanding and accepting only the best from himself. When he gets frustrated, he doesn’t quit; he buckles down and works harder. In my 20 years as a STEM teacher, I have never seen another student demonstrate so much intellectual vitality. When Noah enters the classroom, a lifeless class of students becomes energized with curiosity. Even I find myself excited and more engaged as a teacher. The standards to which he holds himself sometimes makes him a target of vitriol from other students. But, even in the face of unwarranted attacks, he remains steadfast in his character.
 
Noah does not engage in conflict with those who display lesser character than him. Instead, he behaves as a role model, trying to empathetically understand other people’s opinion, willing to learn, yet standing firm on his convictions. He carries himself with dignity even when others do not.
 
I could write so much more about Noah’s achievements. But I’m sure you already see them listed on his application. His achievements are the results of his personality and are well-earned. Any school would be lucky to be his choice and any scholarship would be proud to have him as their recipient and representative.
 
Feel free to contact me should you wish to learn more about this young man.
 
Best regards,
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To Whom It May Concern,

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Alexandra, a student of exceptional character and talent. I have had the pleasure of teaching Alexandra in several math classes over the past few years, including MATH 921: Area and Volume Modeling. During this time, I have been consistently impressed by Alexandra’s dedication, creativity, and kindness.

Unlike any student I ever taught before, Alexandra’s ability to visualize complex mathematical concepts in three dimensions is truly remarkable. In MATH 921, Alexandra excelled by breaking down intricate problems into simpler 3D shapes, a skill that she has continued to develop and apply in various projects. One of the standout moments in my class was Alexandra’s innovative approach to the final project, where she used Blender, a 3D modeling program, to create a detailed and textured playground. This project not only earned her a high A but also laid the foundation for her future endeavors in 3D design.

Beyond her academic achievements, Alexandra’s resilience and adaptability during challenging times have been noteworthy. Transferring to Explore Academy during her 8th grade year, Alexandra quickly acclimated to the school’s rigorous system. Her perseverance was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she consistently sought additional help and guidance through online classes. Her proactive approach and willingness to seek support demonstrate her commitment to her education and personal growth.

Alexandra’s passion for 3D design and game development is complemented by her dedication to learning Japanese, a language she has been studying privately for the past two years. Her ambition to pursue degrees in both 3D design and Japanese language highlights her diverse interests and her ability to manage multiple disciplines with enthusiasm and diligence.

Alexandra’s kind and sweet nature, combined with her academic prowess and creative talents, make her an outstanding candidate for any program she chooses to pursue. I have no doubt that she will continue to excel and make significant contributions in her future studies and beyond.

Please feel free to contact me at __________  if you require any further information. I wholeheartedly recommend Alexandra for any academic or professional opportunity.

Sincerely,

Tell me – who wouldn’t love having a teacher so enthusiastically recommend a student for admissions? If you're curious about how to leverage ALL parts of the application and want personalized insights for your child, grab some time on my calendar now.