Letters of Recommendation: Helping Your Student Shine Through Others’ Words

When applying to college, your student’s letters of recommendation are more than just formalities. They provide admissions officers with a glimpse of your student’s character, work ethic, and personality from the perspective of those who know them in an academic or personal setting. Strong letters can elevate an application, offering depth and insight beyond grades and test scores. As a parent, you can play an important role in helping your student navigate this critical part of the admissions process.

The first step is understanding the purpose of letters of recommendation. Colleges use these letters to learn about qualities that aren’t easily quantified, such as leadership, resilience, or the ability to collaborate. A compelling letter paints a vivid picture of your student’s contributions in the classroom and the broader school community. For this reason, it’s essential that the recommenders your student chooses are familiar with their strengths and have meaningful experiences to share.

Encourage your student to begin thinking about potential recommenders early. Teachers are the most common choice, as they can speak to academic abilities, work habits, and engagement in class. Ideally, your student should choose teachers from core subjects such as English, math, science, or history, particularly from their junior or senior years. These teachers are more likely to have taught your student recently and can offer relevant insights.

It’s also important to consider which teachers can highlight different aspects of your student’s abilities. For example, a math teacher might discuss their problem-solving skills, while an English teacher could emphasize their creativity and communication. If your student has excelled in extracurriculars, such as sports or theater, they might also ask a coach or advisor to write a supplemental letter, provided the college allows it.

Once your student has identified potential recommenders, the next step is to make the request. Encourage them to approach teachers in person whenever possible, as this shows respect and appreciation. They should explain why they’re asking this particular teacher and provide context about their goals. For instance, “I really appreciated how you challenged me to think critically in your class, and I feel you’ve seen me grow as a student.” This personal touch can make a significant difference.

Timing is another crucial factor. Teachers often receive multiple requests for recommendations, particularly during application season, so it’s important for your student to ask well in advance. Ideally, they should make their requests by the end of junior year or the beginning of senior year. This gives teachers plenty of time to write thoughtful letters without feeling rushed.

Your student can also help their recommenders by providing them with relevant information. A brief “brag sheet” or resume that outlines accomplishments, goals, and interests can be incredibly helpful. This document might include details about academic achievements, leadership roles, community service, or future aspirations. The more context teachers have, the easier it will be for them to write personalized letters that highlight your student’s unique qualities.

While your student can provide guidance, it’s important to respect the recommender’s autonomy. The best letters are authentic and reflective of the writer’s genuine impressions. Avoid trying to dictate what should be included or pressuring the writer to portray your student in a specific way. Trust that the recommender will focus on your student’s strengths and present them in a positive light.

Once the letters are submitted, encourage your student to follow up with a heartfelt thank-you note. Writing recommendation letters is a time-consuming task, and expressing gratitude shows maturity and appreciation. A handwritten note is a particularly thoughtful gesture, but an email can also suffice if time is tight. This small act of kindness not only strengthens your student’s relationship with their teacher but also leaves a lasting impression.

It’s also worth noting that colleges vary in their requirements for recommendation letters. Some schools require two teacher recommendations, while others may ask for additional letters from counselors or community members. A handful of schools don’t require letters at all. Make sure your student reviews each college’s application requirements carefully to ensure they submit the right number and type of letters.

If a school allows supplemental letters, your student may consider asking someone outside of the classroom who knows them well, such as a mentor, employer, or volunteer supervisor. These letters can provide a broader view of your student’s character and contributions beyond academics. However, it’s best to avoid submitting unnecessary letters that don’t add new insights, as this can dilute the impact of the application.

Letters of recommendation are an opportunity for your student to stand out in the competitive college admissions process. By choosing the right recommenders, providing helpful context, and approaching the process with respect and gratitude, your student can secure letters that truly reflect their potential. These endorsements can serve as powerful testimonials, helping admissions officers see your student as more than just a transcript or application form.

At SimpliCollege, we’re here to make every step of the college admissions journey more manageable. From navigating recommendation letters to preparing applications, we offer expert advice and resources to set your family up for success. Visit SimpliCollege.com to learn more about how we can help your child shine.