Dear College Confidential,
How should I ask teachers for recommendations to extremely selective schools (i.e. HADES)?
Any advice and tips would be greatly appreciated.
Well, for one, I would approach your teacher when there is plenty of time to talk (after school, between classes, etc). When you have done so, sit down and explain your situation. First tell them about your plans of applying to boarding school, and then pop the question by kindly asking them if they would write a recommendation for you. If you have a good relationship with your teacher they will most likely be more than happy to recommend you.
I also suggest sending them an email later reminding them (before sending the request), and also including information on the school’s recommendation process.
Good luck.
I’m guessing your teachers have done this before. The advice above is good. Make sure you have time to tell the teacher why you’re applying and why you think those schools are a good fit for you. That will make it easier for the teacher to explain why you would do well there.