Teacher Recommendations - Who to choose?

Applying to College
1

So, I’m interested in taking an undergrad pre-med program or a degree which will lead me into grad med.

I know I will have strong letters from my former World History teacher, former Creative Writing Teacher (he also taught AP Lit and AP Lang prior to retiring), and my 11th Grade English Teacher (who may or may not also be my Senior English Teacher). One potential rec letter could come from my AP Bio teacher, who I got along well with, but I ended with a B+ in her class and scored a 2 on the AP Exam (I’m planning to retake it though).

Should I go for 2 of the 4 strong letters, or take one of the strong letters and have my Bio teacher write me an okay to good letter? I’ll be VP of one of the clubs she mentors/mediates (I forget what you call this position for teachers, but you get the point), Women in Science, if that helps.

2

Get recommendation letters from recent teachers (11th grade, preferably) unless you have maintained a very good connection with previous teachers. For AP Bio, ask the teacher if she would be able to write you a letter of recommendation, and if she is hesitant, then don’t ask her. Never let a teacher write you a letter if they are unsure if they can say positive things…or even anything about you! But if you have a leadership role in that club (I’m pretty sure the designation for her is “advisor”) or have played a significant role, maybe she’ll still be able to write something decent.

I don’t think grades are the most important thing; it’s about work ethic, personality, participation, and how well the teacher knows you! If you stand out to them (in a good way), you should be fine!

good luck!