Who should I ask for a recommendation?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hello CC, </p>

<p>There are two teachers that I may ask for a college recommendation letter. I have one teacher in mind for the first, but I could use some advice on who to ask for the second.</p>

<p>Both of the teachers are very nice people. </p>

<p>One taught a subject that I am interested in, but will probably not pursue as a major in college. I did extremely well in the class. She nominated me for a school award for being her best student. She has retired from teaching. Since nearly all of her students have graduated, my recommendation would likely be the only one that she would write. The only downside is that I had a bad day and got a four on the AP exam for the class. She didn't advise an extracurricular activity that I participated in, but I lead an organization pertaining to her subject. </p>

<p>The other taught a subject that I intend to at least minor in. She liked me. I did very well in her class and scored a 5 on the corresponding AP exam. Many rising seniors took her class, and because of her nice nature, she will likely have many recommendation requests. While she has not yet advised an extracurricular of mine, I will be working with her this year as she is coaching for an academic contest that I won awards in last year.</p>

<p>I really like both of these teachers. Who should I ask?</p>

2

<p>Insights, anyone?</p>

3

<p>I’d go with the teacher who nominated you for the school-wide award. Your future interest in her area isn’t the key - it’s her ability to say enthusiastic and insightful things about you that will set you apart from your peers. That is much more likely to happen in her case than with the other teacher, for whom you are one of many good students. The fact that your first teacher is retired is a plus - she will be able to give your letter more attention (as you suggested) and I suspect she will be flattered that you remembered her and wanted her support for this. The school-level award she nominated you for, confirms that she thinks very highly of you and is willing to go the extra mile on your behalf.</p>

4

<p>Thank you M’s Mom!</p>