What Colleges Look for In Letters of Recommendation
If you are on track to completing your college applications, you should be looking for Letters of Recommendation (LORs). Though often treated as an after-thought, LORs are actually a great way to boost your profile and show prospective schools that you are a perfect candidate. But what makes a good LOR? Fundamentally, colleges are looking for two things: that you will succeed in your academic career, and they want to know what you can offer the campus community. A good LOR will:
Show personal qualities. Are you an enthusiastic student? Are you engaging and responsible? Are you a leader? The letter should convey what it is like to interact with you, and explain why you will make a good addition to your college community.
Not say what the college already knows. They already have your CV so a letter that rehashes this information doesn’t really add to your profile. The letter should contain anecdotes that speak to who you are as a person, not just a student.
Have a powerful structure and key words. Yes, colleges look for specific keywords in your LORs. Your letter should have a good mix of your academic accomplishments and your personal qualities. Both of these elements should provide an outlook of your future career capabilities.
An early start paired with Ivy Link’s expert guidance will help you excel in your classes and other activities so that a great LOR follows naturally! To get started on admissions advising and application assistance, schedule a consultation with an Ivy Link advisor. Our programs are tailored to fit the needs of every student starting as early as 7th grade.
