COMMENTS ABOUT LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

I know that many schools will require students to have a letters of recommendation.     I personally feel it is
my responsibility to do this for students that have worked hard in my classes or activities I have been a part
of.    In most instances, I am proud to have that opportunity and want to do what I can do to help you in any way.
Given that statement, my students need to realize that composing a good initial letter of recommendation may
take a couple of hours.   The application can also take additional time complete.  

Things Which Will Help Me Do my best job for you!

·        Put your materials in a closed envelope or folder ... or e-mail things to me

·        If you have multiple applications, place them in chronological order as to when the applications are due

·        Include self-addressed stamped envelopes for each application and make sure your portion of the application is completed before giving it to me

·        If you want multiple letters, it is good to give them to do all at one time

·        It is courtesy to give me and any of your teachers a minimum of five working days (and more if possible)
to compose a good letter or complete an application

  Things to Include to help me in my task::

·        Copy of transcript or a comment about your grades in courses I have not had you in

·        Brag sheet – list of clubs, honors, activities outside of school -- I think we in the North Country tend
to be modest to our detriment -- if you have done activities or jobs outside the classroom or community
service (ie. Youth Group, Church School Teacher, etc ...) I need to know this

·        Other Specific things you may wish me to note

·        Your career goals and/or intended college major

Etiquette: 

·        Keep in mind that teachers of AP and other grade eleven and twelve courses often receive more requests than they can reasonably handle.  Ask early and have another teacher in mind if I say no

·        Understand that sometimes I will not feel comfortable writing letters for certain individuals.  I would rather
refuse your request than write a mediocre letter.   I will not write a poor letter for any student, but I will say no and have frequently in the past when I feel uncomfortable about writing the letter

·        Choosing not to sign the “confidentiality waiver” may not be in your best interest.  I will often share my recommendation letter with you, but keep in mind that I or no other teacher has to do so.  Many teachers feel inhibited in what they would write when their letters are shared with the student.  The result is a letter that is more generic and does not describe your special abilities.   Colleges often accept that special candidate that stands out from the pack

·        An appropriate and sufficient expression of appreciation is a thank you note or personal thank you

·        Teachers like to know if you were admitted to the school of your choice and where you plan to attend.  Don’t forget to tell them.    Also keep in contact when you get into school and keep in mind that the teacher might be inhibited in his or her talking time then (forgive me in the future if I seem snooty :-) ) as I may be doing the same thing for a future student that I am doing for you now

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