Letter of Recommendation from 4 year research teacher or 1 year mentor for successful competition??

Applying to College
1

Hi I’m working on the process of applying to college for this upcoming fall. The general rule of thumb for letters of recommendation are get two from teachers you trust and know well. Although I already have one letter of recommendation confirmed from my AP English teacher, I am torn on who to turn to for my second letter of recommendation. I can choose between two teachers.

The first option is my teacher for my Honors Social Studies Research class who I have had and will have for all four years of high school which is a huge plus except for the fact that I have never really competed in any major competitions or done anything to impress her. I know she is capable of writing a decent letter of recommendation for me but I fear that it will be generic lacking the true passion a strong letter of recommendation should have.

My second option is my business teacher who I have had only for my junior year. Although I only have had him for one year he was my mentor for a business competition in which I placed first in the state and third internationally. I feel that he can write a letter full of my passion for business and my ambitions in the competition. However I am not certain if I want to highlight me winning this competition in my letter of recommendation again as it will already be displayed on my application somewhere.

My question to you guys is which teacher I should ask for a letter of recommendation? (and why you think I should ask that teacher) Thanks!

2

In general I’d go with the teacher who knows you best and can write the more personal LOR which sounds like the business teacher. Did you have the business teacher for an actual class or just as an advisor for your project? You can always ask him/her to write a supplemental recommendation about your process/passion/ambition that you displayed.
Did you consider asking a teacher in a STEM (Math/Science) subject?

3

I’d go with your business teacher and ask him to discuss the competition, your placement, and your quantitative ability. Applicants to business programs generally lack quantitative ability–the letter needs to emphasize your skill with numbers. Include a good reference from a math/statistics teacher if possible. Mention your interest in business in your statement of purpose.