Letters of recommendation are a mandatory part of the application process for many colleges and scholarships. These letters give selection committees an objective look at who you are in the eyes of someone who knows you personally. The people you choose to write letters for you should be individuals who have positive things to say about you, and who are familiar with your strengths, abilities, and contributions to your school and community. It can be very helpful to provide your recommenders with a brief summary of your activities and achievements, so that they will be able to cite specific examples of groups you are involved in and things you have accomplished. A great way to do this is by giving them a printed copy of your ScholarScript.

Application most often ask for two recommendation letters, and some give the option for a third letter. At least one of your letters should be from a person who knows you in an academic context. This can be someone such as a teacher, counselor, or administrator at your school. Another letter can be from a person who knows you in a non-academic context, such as a coach, club advisor, church member, family friend, or employer. Regardless of who you ask to write letters of recommendation for you, be sure to contact them well in advance so they will have plenty of time to complete the letters and send them in before the deadline.

Some examples of things your recommenders may want to discuss in their letters include:

• your dedication to your extra-curricular activities
• how you are as a student, team player, employee, or group member
• your community service and volunteer work
• specific contributions you have made to your school or community
• your specific achievements or honors you have received
• how you interact with your peers, classmates, teammates, co-workers, etc.
• the ways in which you make a difference and help other people at your school or in your community

Check out this website for more information and helpful tips about college recommendation letters: http://www.quintcareers.com/college_recommendations.html