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A strong recommendation letter can make all the difference in a college application, but too often, they sound generic and forgettable. Our University counselor wants to ensure your student’s recommendations truly highlight their strengths! Follow these key tips to make every word count.
Choosing the Right Recommender
- Prioritize connection over prestige. A heartfelt letter from someone who truly knows the student is far more impactful than a generic one from a well-known figure.
- Look for someone who has seen their dedication. A teacher, mentor, or advisor who can speak to their work ethic and perseverance will add weight to their application.
- Diversify perspectives. Choosing a recommender from outside the student’s intended major demonstrates curiosity and a well-rounded academic profile.
- Include a subject expert. A second recommender in their chosen field can highlight their strengths and growth in that area.
Helping Recommenders Write a Strong Letter
- ✍️ Encourage storytelling. Specific anecdotes and detailed observations make letters memorable and authentic. If a recommender doesn’t know the student well, provide a brag sheet with key accomplishments and experiences.
- 📅 Plan ahead. Thoughtful recommendations take time. Ask for letters well in advance of deadlines.
- 📝 Request a full page. Admissions officers spend only about eight minutes per application. A well-developed letter ensures the student’s strengths are fully conveyed.
The School Report & Extra Boosters
- 🏫 School counselor recommendations: Required by many colleges, this letter should reinforce the student’s academic and personal growth.
- ⭐ Provide an activities list. Recommenders rarely mention extracurriculars unless prompted. Sharing a list ensures consistency across the application.
How to Highlight Activities & Skills in a Recommendation Letter
A great recommendation connects a student’s talents to qualities that universities value. Here’s how different activities can be framed to showcase strengths:
| Activity or Skill | How It Can Be Highlighted in a Recommendation Letter |
|---|---|
| Music Performance (e.g., Violinist, Pianist, Vocalist) | Demonstrates discipline, creativity, and the ability to perform under pressure. “Her commitment to perfecting complex compositions showcases her resilience and ability to tackle challenges with precision and grace.” |
| Theater & Drama | Shows confidence, adaptability, and teamwork. “He takes direction well while bringing his unique creativity to every role, making him an invaluable member of any ensemble.” |
| Varsity Sports | Highlights leadership, perseverance, and time management. “Balancing rigorous training with academic excellence, she exemplifies discipline and teamwork—qualities that will serve her well in a competitive university environment.” |
| STEM Club / Robotics | Demonstrates problem-solving and innovation. “His ability to troubleshoot complex engineering challenges while mentoring younger students speaks to his leadership and analytical mindset.” |
| Debate Team | Shows critical thinking and persuasive communication. “Her ability to construct compelling arguments with poise under pressure highlights her analytical skills and intellectual curiosity.” |
| Community Service / Volunteering | Highlights empathy and civic responsibility. “His dedication to tutoring underserved students reflects not only his commitment to education but also his ability to inspire and uplift those around him.” |
| Entrepreneurship (e.g., Small Business, Online Store, App Development) | Demonstrates initiative and resilience. “She built her own online business from the ground up, showcasing her resourcefulness and ability to turn ideas into action.” |
| Foreign Language Proficiency | Highlights adaptability and cultural awareness. “His fluency in three languages allows him to connect with diverse communities, a skill that will be invaluable in today’s globalized world.” |
| Journalism / School Newspaper | Demonstrates strong writing, research, and investigative skills. “Her ability to craft compelling narratives and seek out untold stories shows a natural curiosity and dedication to uncovering the truth.” |
A compelling recommendation letter does more than praise—it provides clear, meaningful evidence of a student’s potential. With the right approach, these letters can help an application truly shine.
