A recommendation letter is only as strong as the relationship and information behind it.

Ask Early

Give your recommender real time — ideally three to four weeks before the deadline. A rushed letter is usually a generic one.

Ask the Right Person

A teacher or mentor who knows you well and can speak to specifics is far more valuable than a more senior person who barely knows your work.

Make It Easy for Them

Provide your recommender with your resume, the scholarship details, and a short note on what you would like them to highlight. This is not manipulation — it genuinely helps them write a stronger, more specific letter.

Follow Up Respectfully

A polite reminder a week before the deadline is reasonable. Constant follow-ups are not.