Teacher recommendations? First some self-reflection...
It will soon be time to ask your teachers and your counselor for letters of recommendations. But before doing that it helps to have done some self-reflection. Think about your three favorite classes on campus. Answer the following questions about yourself and how you have performed in each class.
What have you demonstrated in class that this teacher could praise?
Describe ways you have made learning in class better. Focus on specific contributions, including:
- Discussions
- Presentations
- Projects
- Essays
What positive character traits have you displayed in this teacher’s class?
Which of the following character traits have you demonstrated in class?
- Integrity
- Independence
- Initiative
- Responsibility
- Maturity
- Respect
- Perseverance
- Attention
- Punctuality
- Going above expectations
- How have you used your intellect in this teacher’s class?
Describe ways you have demonstrated your love of learning in this class. Can you describe how you have demonstrated each of these...
Why Consider a Gap Year
Considering taking a Gap Year?
If you’re considering taking a “pause” from your studies, go through the college application process, but ask about deferral policies both for academics and financial aid. Thinking about those things now provides time to decide if a gap is a practical option. In the meantime, start exploring gap programs and options. Do you want something structured or freewheeling? Do you want to climb a mountain or work with children? Is this a time to work in a lab or volunteer at an animal hospital? Would you like to become fluent in a language, understand the inner workings of health care, or meet decision makers in Washington, D.C.? You can do all those and more on a gap.
Gaps have become so acceptable that some colleges, such as Princeton, have set up their own fully-funded programs to encourage students to explore the world and themselves before entering college.
And more than 90 percent of 600 gap students...
Singing the Senioritus Blues
What do I need to focus on in my second semester?
Now that your first semester is under your belt, it is tempting to take it easy during your second semester. Why does it matter if some of my grades slip this semester?
What You Do Now Matters
Colleges are going to ask the following questions of you:
Did you challenge yourself? Did you take the hardest classes you could!
Did you get the best grades you could? This includes both first and second semester.
What did you do extra in your classes? Are you contributing to the class? Will your teachers discuss your contributions in your recommendations?
Finish Strong
Keep your grades up and your enthusiasm going as you start in your spring semester. You will be glad you did!
