<p>So here's my dilemma. I'm trying to apply for a bunch of scholarships to help me pay off my tuition. For a few of them, I need letters of recommendation from my professors. The thing is, I've never really got to know my professors on a more personal level, nor have I ever went to any of their office hours etc. I got A's in all of my classes yet I can't be sure that any of my last semester professors know my name because I never spoke out in class. So I have to say I feel slightly awkward meeting with any of them and asking for a letter. Do they even remember me? Would they feel comfortable writing about me where I have never really participated in class (I'm one of these shy people who rarely speak in class) or talked to them afterwards? On the other hand, the spring semester just started and I have maybe 2-3 weeks to get to know my new professors and vice versa because the first scholarship deadline is pretty soon! So I really don't know which option is better...What do you guys think?</p>
<p>Haha, I think I learned this lesson during HS. I suggest you go back to your old profs. A lot of people are shy. If you got As in their classes, they probably remember you as quiet, but hardworking and intelligent. Go ahead and schedule some time to talk with them, let them know what you thought about their class, etc. Bring in some samples of your work from their class to jog their memory, maybe. I think you will find that generally profs understand that some kids are just not as outgoing, and will be really nice and accomodating.</p>
<p>Meanwhile make an effort to be a little closer to this semester's professors. If any of last semester's seems reluctant to write a rec, you will always have the option of going to one of your new ones. But I think in general, they are less qualified to write an opinion about you. I don't know how many substantial grades you'll have in 2-3 weeks. But who knows what you might need them for in the future, or what benefits (like research, etc.) getting to know them will bring :).</p>
<p>Thanks for your reply :) I definitely learned my lesson too! :) It's just that as of right now, I was really unsure what to do and I thought I should ask some fellow CCers for their opinion! All of my classes were/are relatively small about 20-30 students so hopefully that'll work in my favor! Should I give them my resume when I ask for letters? There's really not much on it, other than my work experience, considering that I'm a freshman and have just begun joining clubs and such.</p>
<p>Yup, you should definitely have a resume along with samples of your best work from his/her class. Even if there's not much on a resume besides GPA/work experience, it works well as a contact/cover sheet for whatever else you give them. If the deadlines for some of this stuff is soon you need to approach your professors ASAP. I would have given them stuff at least a month in advance. At this point if you're professional and timely I think you'll be ok ;). They get requests for recs all the time, so don't feel awkward about it.</p>
<p>Gooood luck.</p>