How to Get Stellar Teacher Recommendations

Getting stellar teacher recommendations for college admissions and scholarship consideration is not as difficult as it seems. Read on for advice on how to get the letters you deserve---or even better ones than you've really earned:

1.At the start of junior and senior years, choose one teacher: At the start of junior year, choose one teacher who seems to be competent and good-natured in a subject in which you normally do well. If the teacher seems to be a strong, persuasive writer or speaker, even better. Then follow these tips and repeat for senior year, since many schools require two teacher recommendations.

2.Be polite: Once you've chosen the teacher who's going to write your recommendation, you have to be on your very best behavior for this one. Of course, you should be respectful of all your teachers, but you really have to be polite with The Chosen One. If the teacher needs someone to run an errand, be the first to volunteer. Avoid having side conversations in this class at all costs; never chew gum while in this teacher's class; always arrive on time.

3.Put in the effort: Work especially hard in this class. Always turn your homework in on time, complete all projects and papers to the best of your ability, actively participate in classroom discussions, and take a leadership position. Stand out from your classmates by showing a dedication for learning and asking questions that contribute to your teacher's lectures.

4.Give your teacher plenty of advance notice: Sometimes scholarship opportunities seem to pop up out of nowhere, but if possible, always give your teacher two-four weeks to write a recommendation so s/he can collect her/his thoughts and compose a convincing letter. After all, your teacher probably has to write recommendation letters for several other students, as well, so you don't want to make your teacher feel (even more) overwhelmed by adding a tight deadline.