I have a huge problem with my college application. I need two teacher recommendations, but all of my teachers whom I have asked to write one for me say “they don’t know me well enough.”
I really don’t know what to do. I’m a good student: 14 APs, top 1.5% in my class, etc; however, I am very shy, so of course my teachers don’t know me very well. My teachers always tell me that I’m one of their best students, that I’m hyper-intelligent, etc. so I don’t understand why they need to know who I am outside of the classroom to write a recommendation; shouldn’t their recommendation reflect who I am in their classroom. Why does a teacher need to know me (on a personal) to write a recommendation? I cannot be the only shy person, so what do others do?
First, come up with a killer resume. No particular format, but outline all you’ve done. Tailor it to the two teachers you most want to ask.
Then, TOMORROW if you’re a Senior, give them a copy, and explain your problem: You did well in their classes, you respect their opinions, but that fact that you’re shy means that you’re having a really hard time getting the 2 letters you need.
For what it’s worth, I think the “not knowing you enough” line is nonsense. I’ve written lots and lots of letters for shy kids.
I agree that teachers don’t need to know you outside of the classroom to write a LOR. Here are a couple of ideas:
– I’d talk to your guidance counselor as they often have a sense of who writes good LORs, who might write one for a quieter student etc.
–The general rule is that if a teacher says they would prefer not to write you a LOR then you should move on to ask someone else. If necessary go back to a sophomore year teacher.
– Do some self-reflection. Do you attempt to participate in the classroom at all? Do you ever speak to teachers outside of the classroom to get help, advice on a project etc.? If not teachers may feel that all they can write is that you score well on exams/essays which may not be sufficient to help you get into a top tier college.
–Other than that, I’m not sure what to tell you – my S was very quiet in HS and he had no issues getting teachers to write his LORs.