NACC

We really like the idea of creating your resume ahead of time and providing your teachers with a copy before they complete a recommendation. One thing not mentioned in this article is that some colleges require specific forms, such as the Common Application's teacher evaluation form.

How To Get Top-Notch Teacher Recommendations

By Jay Brody

Teacher recommendation letters are an oft-overlooked part of the admissions process. Sure, you can just hand your letters to a couple of current teachers and cross your fingers. But planning ahead will lead to better and more thoughtful teacher recommendation letters, which will in turn have a positive impact on your chances for admission.

1. Think well in advance about who will write your teacher recommendation letters. Good recommendation strategy can start during your sophomore and junior years: take teachers you like more than once if possible, and develop relationships with them by speaking often, performing well, and staying after class.
2. Choose recommenders as early as possible. This gives you more time to consider strategy, and more importantly gives your teachers plenty of time to write.
3. Choose teachers who will write the best teacher recommendation letters. That doesn't just mean the teachers who like you the best. Also consider how much time the teacher will likely spend on the assignment, how much experience he or she has with this type of task, how you stack up with other class students, and even how well the teacher likely writes.
4. Put together a resume or basic fact sheet about yourself. If the teacher knows about what you do outside of class, it will be easier for him or her to write an effective recommendation.
5. Make it easy! Give the teacher everything he or she needs to complete the teacher recommendation letter, including instructions, envelopes if necessary, and even a guide as to what needs to happen with each rec. Often this won't be necessary, but make sure the teacher knows exactly what to do and doesn't have to do any labor that you could just as easily do yourself.
6. Follow up on deadlines. You don't want to be pushy, but you need to make sure the recommendations are getting in. The best route is to check with the colleges to make sure all of your materials have arrived. If teachers miss deadlines, make sure you speak with them to get the situation resolved.
7. Be grateful. Writing recommendations is tough and an unpaid part of a teacher's job. Maintain a positive relationship by showing your gratitude after the process is completed.