Select the ideal teacher. When doing so, you'll have several factors to consider. First, you'll want a teacher who has had the benefit of instructing you. If the subject of instruction coincides with the major you intend to pursue in college, or, is relevant in some other way, then this is ideal. Many students prefer to receive recommendations from a teacher in whose class they've excelled. This isn't always necessary. Ask for a recommendation from a teacher who has watched you master a difficult curriculum, adapt and grow.
Prepare a resume to help your teacher. The strong recommendation is the one with concrete examples backing up whatever qualities your teacher describes. At a minimum, your resume should include basic academic information such as your intended date of graduation, grade point average and any honors or accolades received. Beyond that, list any extracurricular activities, club memberships, offices held, volunteer work and after school employment. Include a photo.
Approach the teacher well in advance of any anticipated deadlines. At a minimum, a teacher should be given six weeks to complete and submit your recommendation. It's best to approach her as soon as possible because your teacher is likely to have several requests. Some teachers limit the number of recommendations they are willing to send to a given program, or overall, in a given year.
Discuss your resume with the teacher. Highlight your academic strengths and point to examples of leadership, perseverance and hard work. College admission officers are interested in how you function as part of a classroom and school community. Colleges look for comments concerning your personality, attitude and skills. Employers are interested in your ability to work independently and as part of a team. They look for comments concerning dependability, leadership potential, intelligence and attitude. Highlight relevant examples when discussing the recommendation with your teacher.
Supply the teacher with supplemental forms or materials she'll need to submit your application. If she must mail the application, provide the courtesy of a stamped addressed envelope. Thank her. Give her a small token of your appreciation. Let your teacher know the outcome.