How Important is a Recommendation

LukeVijay · 10-11-2009, 09:00 AM

Hi guys,

I'm Luke from Singapore and I'm currently wading through the krazeee world of american college apps. I notice that Bard College requires a recommendation from a science/math teacher.

Now as an arts student, I don't really know if I can find a maths/science teacher who knows me well enough to give me an awesome reference. I mean, I've got great references from my literature and drama teachers. But I've spent so much more time interacting with those.

Plus, being a Singaporean (YAY SERVING THE NATION FOR 2 YEARS!), it'll be a wonder if any of them even remember me if I go back now.

So... am I doomed?

T26E4 · 10-11-2009, 09:21 AM

Why don't you contact Bard and tell them your situation. They may offer good alternatives

smoda61 · 10-11-2009, 09:58 AM

I was thinking the same thing as T26E4. I think that your situation with the two years of required military service is unusual in the applicant pool. I would contact Bard directly, probably by e-mail. Explain your situation with the two years military and concern with which HS teachers would still be avaiable for recommendations. Maybe they will let you replace the science one with some sort of military recommendation.

LukeVijay · 10-11-2009, 10:54 AM

Thanks guys! I can't believe I didn't think of that.

I wonder whether they'll actually respond to me though... Sometimes it seems the only unis with amiable admissions offices are the Australian ones. (Oh well, here it goes! *sends email*)