I’m planning on applying to competitive computer science programs. I had originally planned to ask my AP Physics and AP Gov teachers; however, I’m now thinking that I should ask my AP Calculus teacher in place of the AP Gov. How important is it to get a recommendation from a math teacher when applying to a comp sci program? Thank you for any advice!
It is better to have one from a STEM class and one from a non-stem core class (English, Social Studies, Foreign Language)
1 Like
Asking your calculus teacher sounds like a better idea but I’d check the application requirements if I were you.
Most schools have recommendation requirements when it comes to computer science and engineering programs. If yours doesn’t, it might be because it doesn’t make that big a difference.
It might be good to have one rec from STEM and one from humanities, at least according to MIT (the “textbook” CS school). But really the most important thing is how well the respective teachers know you, and how confident are you that they will write you a glowing rec letter.
How well do you know the teachers and how effectively can they describe you as a student? Your grades in the classes, AP scores, etc., speak to your accomplishments.
Letters are important I telling why you accomplished what you did. What type of a student/person you are, and why you would be a valuable contribution to a school.
A letter that just says “X was a very good student, participated in class, and seemed like a nice person” will not be very valuable. Select the teacher that can provide a more meaningful story about you.