Brag Sheet
Student Process: Requesting a Letter of Recommendation
First, check your requirements: Your college applications will specify if a recommendation letter is actually required. Most colleges do not require them, so make sure you need one before asking!
1. Complete Your Brag Sheet
- Make a copy of the Brag Sheet worksheet and fill it out completly.
- Tip: The more detail you provide, the better and more personalized your letter will be.
2. Ask 3-4 Weeks in Advance
- Personally ask a teacher or counselor if they would be willing to write a letter for you at least 3 to 4 weeks before your deadline.
- Do not just send an email request out of the blue; have a conversation with them first.
3. Provide Your Writer with the Details
- Once they agree to write the letter, provide them with a copy of your completed Brag Sheet (can share electronically).
- Note: Most colleges use digital platforms (like Common App) that require you to invite the teacher via their staff email.
4. Monitor and Follow Up
- Confidentiality: Letters of recommendations are strictly confidential. Teachers and counselors will submit them directely to the college or platform and will not share them with you
- Track Submissions: If it the student's responsibility to log into your application portals and verify that the letters have been successfully submitted before the deadline.
- Need Help? If a staff member runs into technical issues while trying to upload your letter, please have them reach out to Ms. Handrick for assistance.
5. Say Thank You
- After your letters are submitted, send a brief thank-you email or a handwritten note to the staff member. They volunteer their own time to write these for you!