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We recommend getting on the ball with requests for  

College Recommendation Letters

 ! But don't just take our word for it. Here's some advice from K. Patricia Aviezer, author of "Game Plan for Getting Into college" (Petersons, 2004).

Choose the right writer.
It may sound obvious, but you should pick a teacher you're sure will take the time to write a glowing recommendation letter for you. To ensure maximum flattery, provide plenty of advance notice and a list of your achievements, and then follow up politely to make sure the Deadline can be met.

The Waiver Question:
Why would anyone waive their right to read their own college recommendation letters? And if you don't, how will admissions officers perceive that decision? While there is no right or wrong answer, most counselors suggest signing the waiver that appears on the majority of forms for college recommendation letters. Doing this indicates that you're confident the recommendation letter will be positive, and that you haven't screened or fine-tuned it.

Say thanks on paper.
It's polite, and it goes a long way. Besides, if you wind up needing another great college recommendation letter in the future, your teacher will be more likely to say "yes," since you've shown appreciation for his or her time.



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Dawn Papandrea is the Managing Editor of The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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