I have college recommendations from three of my teachers (Computer Science, Physics, and World History), but I’m not sure which ones to send to UChicago. I’m going to major in CS so I’m definitely sending the Computer Science Rec - just debating about the latter two. Would they prefer a more well-rounded student or one who is proficient in the sciences? I’m sure that at the end, it would be my essays and not my recs that would make it or break it, but I might as well take advantage of every chance I can get since my ECs and test scores might be lacking.
Here’s what the admissions website says:
"We require two recommendations from teachers who have taught you in an academic subject: high school teachers for first-year applicants and college instructors for transfer applicants. Academic subjects, as defined for the purposes of letters of recommendation, include mathematics, social studies, history, science, English or literature, foreign language, and other courses in which you are doing substantial amounts of reading, writing, or class discussion. If you have questions about whether a particular course is a good choice, feel free to contact your regional Admissions Counselor.
Ask for recommendations from teachers who know you well and can speak specifically and positively about your contributions in the classroom, academic interest, and interactions with classmates. This does not necessarily need to be the teacher who gave you the best grades, but instead someone who best knows your academic personality and thinks highly of you. Plan to have a brief conversation with your recommender to give them context on your educational plans, as this can be helpful in writing a more detailed letter."
(later on)
“Supplemental Recommendations
If you feel that we won’t be able get a full picture of who you are without a third letter of recommendation from another teacher, an employer, role model, youth leader, or friend, you may submit one additional letter. Submitting a supplemental letter of recommendation is not an expectation, and please be considerate of the significant time commitment writing a good letter of recommendation takes before asking a potential recommender.”
You know these instructors better than anyone giving you advice on this thread; however, as far as subjects themselves go a non-science rec. is probably wise. Eight of your 15 college core subjects are going to be held in seminar format with an intense amount of reading, writing and discussion, so they are going to want an objective assessment of those skills.
As far as how many (two or three) - just a gut feeling but perhaps that CS letter should be viewed as a supplemental recommendation. They don’t require a rec. letter for your planned course of study - they don’t even require you to have a definite major in mind (though many applicants do). Also, as they are implying, it’s usually best to stick to the core subjects. However, if you think submitting the CS letter gives them the full picture, then of course include.
I’d send World Hostory & Physics if they are strong. Your major isn’t as relevant as you think in this process.
Thanks for the advice! I’ve had various personal and in-class projects for CS so including it would certainly help me. I’ll make sure to submit it as a supplement like you said.