What makes a GREAT letter of recommendation?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hey everyone, I've finished the application process (got in ED), so this is just out of curiosity.</p>

<p>Everyone always says that their rec's are "glowing" or "phenomenal." Well, the thing is, all recommendations should be GOOD. I mean, except in odd, rare cases where a teacher trashes a student, they all convey the same message: nice kid, good worker, accept them...blah blah blah.</p>

<p>So, what constitutes a GREAT recommendation? Is it the fact that the person knows them well, and uses specific examples in their letter? Or is it that they are professional in their writing?</p>

<p>Basically, I'd be interested to know how colleges "rate" them. It seems to me that, at least at big state schools, the recommendation is sort of a "check" thing. Meaning, they have it? Good, moving on. It seems like it'd be hard to compare them against each other, especially when thousands of people are applying and they all convey the same message (i.e. great kid, any place would be lucky to have him/her, etc.)</p>

<p>Comments? Thanks!</p>

2

<p>There’s a difference between “This student is hardworking, trustworthy, kind, helpful…” and “This is one of the best students I’ve had”. Most teachers don’t write the second kind of recommendation for just anyone.</p>

3

<p>They should include specific anecdotes/examples from assignments that back up their claims. It should not seem like all your teachers said pretty much the same thing.</p>