Student Voices by CV
How long before the college application deadlines should I ask my teachers for a letter of recommendation?
This question was asked by a high school junior who knows college application deadlines are approaching for the seniors of her school. She wants to get a jump on her letters of recommendation, and she wants to know how soon is too soon for the request. She's interested in pursuing an english degree and finding a career in publishing. #college #english #college-applications #publishing #college-advising #online-publishing
3 answers
Adrienne De Rose
Adrienne’s Answer
Since this student is only a Junior, she should begin to think about what teachers know her well academically and her involvement Iin extracurricular activities. She should begin speaking with her guidance counselor about when she should begin asking for letters of recommendation. She may want to wait until the beginning of Senior Year, as new teachers may take an interest in her work. Currently, speaking to her English Teachers about college expectations will het offer insight and show teachers that she is determined.
Thank you, Adrienne! We'll be sure she gets the word.
Student Voices by CV
You are very welcome!
Adrienne De Rose
Mark Wagner
Mark’s Answer
Okay, you could set up an appointment with a counselor regarding your future goal of publishing. Believe it or not, Harlequin sold 42 million books of romance in 2015. Then consider what universities could offer the best classes in English and publishing. And consider applying for a scholarship because some universities and colleges have expensive tuition. Of course, write an essay or two, maybe a poem that would excite your Advanced English class teacher. Then ask for a Letter of Recommendation, as you request for the applications of the selected universities and colleges. Download from Google the publishing companies that are busy, and might be looking for your hard work soon. Good luck, Mark.
Christine Warden
Christine’s Answer
I'd recommend speaking with key teachers she thinks may be good candidates to speak highly of her in recommendations sooner rather than later to see if they'd be on board with that idea. That gives you some time to adjust plans if, for whatever reason, there's a surprise and someone says they won't be able to write the recommendation.
Be open to discussing timelines with your teachers. A good rule of thumb is probably to give them 2-3 months notice before you would need them to submit the letter so that they can have ample time to put a lot of thought into crafting how they speak to your accomplishments and work ethic. Recognize, though, that many teachers may be receiving several requests for recommendations along similar timelines, so ask them if they prefer further notice, or even if they would prefer to be reminded a few weeks ahead of the deadline.
Best of luck!