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How does a recommendation letter work for scholarships?

This may be a little obvious answer but it might not be for many people. I am very shy at times. I don't like to ask teachers or people I know to write about me. I have avoided many scholarships in the past because there are recommendation letters needed. I was wondering if there is a way you can ask people. How do you know if someone is a good person to ask for one? Can you reuse your past recommendation letters for multiple scholarships? #scholarships #recommendation

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Mary’s Answer

Great question! I review applicant submissions/letters of recommendation for scholarships for both high school and adult learners, who want to pursue a college degree. After reviewing hundreds of submissions, the recommendations I find the strongest are those who can provide specific personal examples of character, community involvement, leadership, scholastic motivation. It may be a teacher, a counselor, a boss where they work after school, a team coach, or someone at their church. Saying "John Doe" is a good person, is not as strong as "John Doe seeks opportunities to help other students before and after class......has a 3.0 in college prep studies and has developed software which helped virtual students during Covid....has started an on-line Facebook page to help train/mentor young women who want to learn about coding."

I agree with helping the person you want to write your letter as much as possible-remind them of things you have done/experiences you have had which highlight your skills and strengths, what you are trying to accomplish with the letter. They may be as shy about writing something as you are about asking for their help. Take a deep breath and ask for help in "your best story". Good luck.

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Amanda’s Answer

Hi April!
Your school counselor should be able to write a letter for you. I write letters for my students, and am always happy to help. If you feel shy, you can always send an email, and include a brief resume or just a few bulleted items that you would like to share about yourself. As a school counselor, I like to include personal stories about my students or something unique that will set them apart from others. Also, you could ask a favorite teacher, coach, mentor, club advisor, etc. Hope this was helpful!
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Ld’s Answer

Hi April: I LOVE this question! If I may add on to the previous answer: when you ask someone to give you a letter of recommendation, you MUST generate 2 or 3 points for them to specifically say about you. They may already have something in mind to say, but probably not! When you ask someone for something, don't make them work. It's tough to sit down and write sometimes, isn't it? They feel the same way! They will be thrilled to give you a recommendation, however, if you give them something to work with. Also: if they don't use all of the stuff you provide, don't take it personally: they may have something else they want to highlight about you instead. Learn about yourself from what they write, but take it with a grain of salt! Best of luck!
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