Ideally:
* Teachers: A teacher who taught you in a challenging academic subject (e.g., AP, Honors, IB) is often best. They can speak to your intellectual curiosity, work ethic, critical thinking skills, and engagement in class. Two letters from different teachers showing a variety of skills is often preferred.
Good Alternatives (Depending on your situation):
* Counselor: Your school counselor can provide a holistic overview of your academic record and extracurricular involvement, providing context for your application. However, they may not know you as well as a teacher. One letter from a counselor might suffice, especially if your application is already strong otherwise.
* Other Educators: A coach, mentor, or other educator who knows you well, especially if they can speak about your leadership qualities or a significant project you participated in, can also be effective.
* Employer (if applicable): If you have significant work experience, a supervisor who can attest to your work ethic, responsibility, and problem-solving skills might be beneficial, but this is less common than teacher recommendations.
Who to Avoid:
* Family members or friends: These individuals lack the necessary objectivity and academic perspective.
* Teachers who barely know you: A generic letter from a teacher who doesn't know you well will not be helpful.
* Teachers from easy classes: Colleges are looking for evidence of your academic ability in challenging courses.
In summary: Aim for a mix of teachers who know you well from rigorous courses, potentially supplemented by your counselor or another relevant educator. The key is to get letters from individuals who can provide specific, insightful, and positive recommendations. Always ask for permission before approaching someone for a letter of recommendation, and provide them with plenty of time and materials to write a strong letter.