Some college applications require you to submit recommendations. Because this is such an important part of your application, you should be as organized as possible. To help you with this process, here is a list of things you should and shouldn’t do when asking for a recommendation.
DO begin early. Most recommenders need at least two weeks, to write recommendations, maybe longer. Ask them as far in advance of an application deadline as you can to be sure your recommendation gets prepared in a timely manner.
DON’T wait until the last minute to ask for a recommendation. Teachers and administrators are busy people. In addition to their regular work, they are probably getting requests for recommendations from many other students.
DO ask the right person for a recommendation. A recommender should be someone who knows you well and can give an honest and candid opinion of your academic abilities and your personal character. Many schools are specific and require your recommendations to come from a guidance counselor and possibly a teacher of a certain subject. Other people you might consider asking are employers, coaches or activity leaders.
DON’T ask family members or friends for recommendations. While they might know a lot about you, their recommendations might seem biased and won’t hold as much weight with admissions counselors.
