"Recommended" Reading
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May 18, 2008 Posted by Eileen Wilkinson (Counseling)
One of the primary components of my work here is to be a perpetual nag. I’m a mom, so while I don’t always relish the role, I am quite adept in “encouraging” people to do things they would rather put off until another day. I also know that for juniors in high school May is a busy month. Exams are looming, papers and project due dates are fast approaching, and the unrelenting demands of one’s social life make for a pretty full existence. Despite my astute observation, there is one more thing I’d like to add to your list: Carefully consider whom you will ask to write your letters of recommendation for college applications and make your request - NOW. In the fall of the next academic year teachers will be buried with requests from anxious students, and some would prefer the option of writing a carefully considered letter of reference in the summer months rather than one of many in September or October, Many of the most “popular” teachers, known for their beautiful recommendations, insist (or strongly encourage) students to ask for a letter this time of year. We recommend requesting a letter from two teachers in academic subjects, such as World History or Physics, not your yoga instructor; no matter how insightful she is about your strengths. Think about a teacher who really knows you…and likes you, anyway. It is often preferable to have the letters written by teachers who you have had class with your junior year, or will have (again) next year. And, it’s not always wise to ask the teacher who gave you an easy “A.” Perhaps someone who saw you rise to a challenge or engage fully in class was more impressed. Envision how he/she may write about you. I know it’s tough to ask, but you’ll be glad you did.