How To Ask For and Receive An Outstanding Letter of Recommendation

Some colleges require one or more letters of recommendation as part of your admission application. Check for specific requirements from each institution as some may want one from a counselor and a teacher, some may want one from a core subject teacher, some may want additional ones from people who will speak to a particular characteristic of yours such as a statement of faith. The people you ask to write these letters perform this task without being paid and out of kindness. A well written letter can take up to a couple of hours to complete. A bit of respectful planning on your part will gain you long term benefits in a glowing recommendation. Before you ask, consider who knows you and your academic abilities well, who has taught you recently, who will write most eloquently about you. Next, follow the tips below.

Ask in person and in advance. Don’t just add a teacher or counselor email address to an application platform or portal. Select a time to see them in person which may require a short appointment. When you politely ask for a letter of recommendation, the writer may have a process for these letters. If so, follow it. Give them plenty of time, 3 weeks at least, to write. You’ll want their most positive energy focused on your letter which can’t be done in a 24 hour turnaround time frame. In fact, most teachers and counselors would refuse this disrespectful request.

Follow up with an email and a resume. Thank them for their agreement to write a letter for you, remind them of the due date needed, and possibly add additional information which may help the writer round out their letter. A resumé, activities list, or short personal statement may be supportive.

Expect not to see the final letter. Typically these are turned in through a confidential portal provided by the college or application platform. However, it is okay to ask for a copy to keep in your file for future use for scholarships or job applications. The writer may provide a copy for you or ask you to see them again when you need another letter.

Write a thank you note. This is important. Do it on paper. Some courtesies go a long way and a hand written note of appreciation, two or three sentences, mailed or hand delivered, is an important practice of gratitude and professionalism.

– Ann Voorhees is founder of Ann Voorhees College Consulting

ann@annvoorhees.com