<p>I know most people get recs from Junior year or Senior year teachers</p>
<p>but is there ANY disadvantage of asking a Sophomore year teacher?</p>
<p>The only reason I'm asking a sophomore year teacher is that I went to some competitions with him as a "coach" (didn't really teach anything but he was the teacher in charge) so he knows me really well. Also, seeing his comments for midterms and stuff, he's a guy who write positively</p>
<p>The only problem is Sophomore year was a long time ago, and the admissions committee wants to see who you are <em>now</em>. My opinion is that its fine (especially if you think this teacher will provide a better reference than any other teacher you’ve had), but you should provide a second letter from a teacher who’s taught you more recently. </p>
<p>Also, just to clarify, this teacher has actually taught you as well as being a “coach”, right? Because most schools want someone who is actually your teacher.</p>
<p>yes he was a teacher (thus my “sophomore” teacher)
and I’m sure there would not be a big problem in the “now” situation
cuz I’ve been interacting with him my junior year and will be for my senior year for competitions</p>
<p>Ok, then that should definitely be fine. He’ll almost certainly mention these more recent competition as well, so I’d say he’s a perfect person to ask for a recommendation.</p>
<p>You should read each college’s policy on teacher rec. They vary. Some colleges accept only recs from junior or senior year teachers while others recommend getting recs from the teacher who know you best.</p>