Letters of Recommendation: Choosing Your Recommenders & Helping Them Write the Best Letter

Published by cirkledin on March 28, 2025March 28, 2025

College applications need great letters of recommendation. A good letter shows colleges who you are. It highlights your strengths and abilities. Letters of recommendation can be a key piece of your application. This article will help you choose wisely. You’ll also learn how to help your recommenders write amazing letters.

Who Should You Ask for a Recommendation Letter?

Think carefully about who you ask. Don’t just ask teachers who gave you good grades. Ask teachers who know you well.

• Teachers Who Know You: Choose teachers who know your work ethic. Pick teachers who have seen you grow.
• Someone Who Can Speak to Your Strengths: Find someone who can talk about your skills. They should highlight your contributions.
• Someone Who Can Write Well: A well-written letter matters. Choose someone who can express themselves clearly.
• Someone Who Likes You: It helps if the recommender likes you. Their enthusiasm will show in the letter.

The “Brag Sheet”: Your Secret Weapon

Help your recommenders write great letters. Give them a “brag sheet.” This is a document that highlights your accomplishments.You can use platforms like Cirkled In to create a dynamic portfolio to highlight your skills and achievements and share that with the recommender (and it’s free!).

• List Your Achievements: Include academic awards and extracurricular activities. Mention projects you’re proud of.
• Share Your Goals: Explain your college and career goals. Tell them what you hope to achieve.
• Highlight Relevant Skills: List the skills that are important for college. Writing, problem-solving, and teamwork are good examples.
• Provide Examples: Give specific examples of your skills in action. “In my history class, I led a group project that received an A+.”

Here’s a simple brag sheet template you can adapt:

• Name: [Your Name]
• Course/Activity: [Recommender’s class or activity]
• Key Achievements: [List 3-5 achievements]
• Skills Demonstrated: [List 3-5 skills]
• Future Goals: [Your college and career goals]

Asking for the Letter: Timing and Etiquette

Don’t wait until the last minute. Ask for letters well in advance. Six to eight weeks is a good timeframe.

• Ask in Person (If Possible): This shows respect. It also allows you to explain your request.
• Be Polite and Respectful: Thank them for their time. Acknowledge that they’re doing you a favor.
• Provide All Necessary Materials: Give them your brag sheet, transcript, and application deadlines.
• Waive Your Right to See the Letter: This shows colleges that you trust your recommender.

What Makes a Strong Recommendation Letter?

A strong letter goes beyond just saying you’re a good student. It highlights specific qualities and achievements. It tells a story.

• Personal Anecdotes: The letter should include stories that show your personality.
• Specific Examples: The letter should give examples of your skills and achievements.
• Enthusiasm: The letter should express genuine enthusiasm for your potential.
• Focus on Your Strengths: The letter should highlight your best qualities.
• Addresses Your Weaknesses (Constructively): A good letter may address weaknesses in a positive way, framing them as areas for growth.

Thank You Notes: Showing Appreciation

After your recommenders submit their letters, send them thank-you notes. This shows that you appreciate their time and effort. A handwritten note is a nice touch. It is courteous and professional. It strengthens the relationship.

Writing great recommendation letters takes time. Thank your recommenders for their help. It is good etiquette. Good luck with your college applications!

Conclusion: Recommendation Letters: Choose Wisely & Help Your Recommenders

Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in your college applications. They provide insights about you that grades and test scores can’t show. Remember to choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Create a detailed brag sheet to help them highlight your achievements and qualities. Ask for letters well in advance, with proper etiquette and respect for their time. Understand what makes a strong recommendation letter, and always express your gratitude with a thoughtful thank-you note.

By following these steps, you’ll help your recommenders craft letters that truly showcase your potential and character. These letters can make a significant difference in the admissions process, helping colleges see you as more than just numbers on a page. With careful planning and thoughtful communication with your recommenders, you can ensure that this important piece of your application works in your favor. Good luck with your college journey!