Stanford SCEA, recommendation dilemma

<p>I'm having a bit of a problem with teacher recommendations. My English teacher suddenly left during the summer due to an emergency, and I was really counting on her for an outstanding letter. My current English teacher and I have really hit it off, and she is generally known to be a great writer. However, I'm applying by Nov. 1 for SCEA, and that gives my teacher a mere two months to get to know me.</p>

<p>Should I:
- get an average letter from my 11th grade Physics teacher (Physics was my weak subject, but I worked hard. I should include that he's not very good at writing)
- or a great letter from my 12th grade English teacher who only knew me for 2 months? Would it even be considered?
(Of course, I don't expect to be placed at the "top of her career" or anything of that sort. I just want her to talk about my writing and love for literature.. English is my best subject).</p>

<p>Is there any way to reach the former English teacher?</p>

<p>If you can't reach the old one, go with the one you're getting to know and have hit it off well with.</p>

<p>siliconvalleymom: Unfortunately, there is no way to reach her.</p>

<p>Did any of you use a recommendation from someone who only knew you for 2 months?</p>

<p>I think you should use the Physics teacher. Idk how Stanford adcoms would fill about receiving a rec letter from a teacher who knew you for only two months..</p>

<p>Did you win any awards for your writing? Perhaps you can enclose a winning sample of your writing. I am sure that would speak volumes about why Stanford should take you. Is there anyone else who knows you well who can write a great letter for you? i.e. community service related supervisor, research supervisor, etc.</p>

<p>Personally I would suggest getting a rec from your current english teacher if you are confident that she can write a good rec, but it would be a good idea to ask her to explain your situation. In the event that you are waitlisted, send a follow-up recommendation.</p>