<p>so I keep seeing things about the "cover letter" on recs. What exactly is this, something I print off the internet? Or does it refer to the letter the teacher writes? Am I missing something!?!?</p>
<p>A cover letter, from what I know, is basically a letter YOU write to your teacher requesting the recommendation.</p>
<p>ok but it's nothing special or based on a template... just something I write that is like "thanks for doing this, here's where i'm applying and why" blah blah blah.</p>
<p>D's "cover letter" to each of her teachers included specific instructions regarding each college. Some wanted the form and/or letter sent directly to the school (for these she attached the form, already filled out with her info and an addressed stamped envelope). Some colleges want the form and/or recommendation letter to all be enclosed with one package that comes from the guidance office, so the teachers were asked to hand those forms and letters over to guidance. Some schools don't have a form to fill out, so the only thing she attached was an envelope addressed to the school. Some schools will accept the recommendation online as well, so if you want to give the teacher that opportunity, that would be pointed out in the cover letter. There's a lot of organization involved, and a lot of stamps!</p>