What do to about Recs

T26E4
Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:34:22 +0000

A rec that helps adcoms decide favorably for a student will include the following (IMHO): clear examples of the student’s drive, motivation, classroom presence (sociability and leadership), maturity and other positive intangibles. The teacher will be asked how the student compares with peers and other students the teacher has known in his/her career. Positives will be characterized by several solid anecdotes – not just broad statements of support.

Given this, which of your teachers is more likely to generate these qualities? Even if it’s a teacher you may not know very well, make an appt with him/her and say you’re considering asking for a rec but would like to discuss things in advance. Ask if he/she were to write something for you, what it might be like – certainly you’re not constraining them from writing whatever they want but you want to know how intimate the rec really can be.

Good luck to you