My mom always told me that I was special, that I was something else, and so I grew up thinking that I was so unique—the one in a million. However, reality hit me in high school. I wasn’t the only all A student who was in Beta, interact, NHS and orchestra. Knowing that I was just the stereotypical “good” student, I didn’t feel so special anymore. It must be hard for colleges to decide how “special” you are. They look at grades, extra-curricular activities, standardized tests, and recommendation letters. Recommendation letters give a good insight to what kind of student you are from a different perspective. At times it is hard to describe yourself just from your view without having a biased view. Often times, we only say the good thing about us—we like to think that we have little flaws. So, how do you make your recommendation letter just as special as you and not like a cookie cutter?

Colleges require recommendation letters from your teachers and your counselor. Recommendation letters from teacher shouldn’t be so trite since they spend every day with you, but it’s a different story with the counselors. How often do you see your counselor? How much does he/she know about you? Very little, I would say. It is vital that you keep good communications with the counselor because when recommendation time rolls in, you don’t want them to write the obvious.. like “she is a hard-working student with a GPA of 3.8.”

You should try to meet with your counselor at least 3-4 times a semester. Just drop by and say hi. Tell him/her your interest. In my junior year, I dropped by my counselor and said, “hi, I am Sehe Han, and I wanted you to know me so that you will have easier time writing my recommendation.” Afterwards, he just laughed, and we had a casual conversation about my interest and my perspective colleges. Now, thinking back, I may have been a little too blunt, but at least he knows me pretty well now. I won’t have to worry about getting a ordinary recommendation. I want my counselor to look at my name and say “hey, I know Sehe. She’s that girl that talks to me often. She has great sense of humor, and she seems to be real up to date with school things.”

It is also vital that you turn your recommendation letter 2-3weeks prior to the deadline. TIME IS GOLD! You must understand that you aren’t the only one doing recommendations—all the seniors are. The more time you give to the counselor, the better your recommendation will be. They will have more time to think and refine it; sometimes she/he might have to do some research on you. She/he could ask your teachers some questions and look through your records. Also, supply them with any paperwork that will give a greater picture as to who you are, whether it would be a brag sheet or a senior profile. With ample time, you know that you won’t get a hurriedly written recommendation, and after a week of giving your recommendation, gently remind your counselor. Say something like “Hey Mrs.____, I just wanted to remind you that the deadline is _____ and that you have everything you need from me.” And afterwards make sure to give thanks! just say “I know that you had to do tons of recommendations, and I really appreciate you for writing me one.”

Too shy to talk? Don’t be. Just think. Your life won’t talk itself. You must help yourself. You must take the initiative to shape your future. So, go do it! Plus, the counselors would rather meet and learn about you personally rather than through paper.