Everybody has been rating their rec. letters but what exactly constitutes a “great recommendation”?
Who did you ask for a recommendation and why?
<p>I asked my French teacher because I am a prospective French major, and also because I have received the highest grade ever in all of her classes I have been in (out of all of her years of teaching). I talk to her regularly, and I feel that she knows me best out of all of my teachers.</p>
<p>My other "great" recommendation is from the retired head of the English department at Brown University (I am only sending this recommendation to Brown).</p>
<p>It depends on who it's from. Many people would disagree with this statement, but it's true. For example, say you have a 23 year old biology teacher that has a BS from a state college and he/she gives you a "best student in my career" recommendation. That isn't going to pull as much weight as say, your professor (with a PhD) from Harvard Summer School that gives you a "good" recommendation in Linear Algebra.</p>
<p>Back to your question. Most recs. that signifies you are in the top 5% of all the teacher's students could be considered "excellent." Just remember, emphasizing who the teacher was and what they taught is important.</p>
<p>how do you know what your recs were? I gave the forms and stamped enevelopes to my teachers and have not seen them. I trust they will say good things and I know them well, but isn't it the norm/expected to waive the right to see them and whatnot?</p>
<p>Usually you can request a photocopy of the recommendation from the teacher.</p>
<p>unless you waive your right to see them, which is recommended because it keeps your teachers honest</p>
<p>You're right, Lindsaylu. You really shouldn't ask them for a copy unless they volunteer one. It's not good form. They're supposed to be able to write freely. I think this is to your advantage as long as you choose wisely. (Some teachers are actually reluctant to wildly praise a student if they feel they'll read it. ) Before you bring your rec to the teacher, ask him/her if they feel comfortable writing you a letter of recommendation for college. Judge the reaction - if it's " I'd be very happy to!" you go with that. If they hesitate, or look uncomfortable, find another teacher. I disagree with alex above - I think it's always best to go with the teacher who feels the most positive providing they know you fairly well. The education level of the teacher or the level of the class isn't that important (they know you took linear algebra, as it's on the transcript) - the enthusiasm of the instructor toward you and your potential is most important.</p>