Preparing for College

What do they look for?

Preparing for College
  1. Strength of your curriculum
  2. Your GPA
  3. SAT, ACT and SAT Subject Tests scores
  4. Application essays
  5. Extracurricular activities
  6. Recommendations

Teacher & Counselor Recommendations

Here are some guidelines that should help you secure better recommendations

  • Start early.  Your teachers and counselors are swamped, so give them plenty of time.
  • Give your teachers and counselors all the necessary materials, including your application deadlines and stamped, addressed envelopes or a link to online recommendations.
  • Waive your confidentiality rights.
  • Pick your recommenders wisely.  Don't pick a teacher just because you got an A in his or her class.  It's important that the teacher or counselor knows you well.
  • Promptly send a thank-you note to each person who gives you a recommendation.