Selecting the Right References for Your College Entrance

When you’re trying to get into the college of your dreams, every piece of the puzzle is critical. Your high school transcript, your activities and achievements, you application essay, and of course, your personal references, are all absolutely essential. Each piece needs to be the best it can be. If you’re at the end of your high school career and preparing your college applications, it’s a little too late to focus on improving your transcript, but it’s the perfect time to carefully select your references. You want to select people that can sing your praises in a tangible, genuine fashion, and it’s all the better if they come from varied, respectable backgrounds. Below are some basic tips to consider as you select who will offer you the all-important reference.

1) Variety
Do your best to select individuals from a variety of backgrounds. It’s obvious that references from your teachers are valuable, but try and mix it up. And if you do strictly stick to your former educators, offer variety in their subjects as well - don’t just include every English teacher you’ve ever had, regardless of how much they adore you. It’s best to tap people from different areas of your life experience. Former employers, people that hold influential positions that can speak to your strengths, and relevant coaches are all great people to include, along with your teachers.

2) Be All-Encompassing
Think about yourself as the whole being that you are. You’re more than just a trail of grades and papers; you’ve no doubt garnered an array of achievements inside and outside of the classroom, so don’t be afraid to ask those people that know all sides of you to be your references. Did you help a politician campaign? Did you volunteer as a hospital aide or a charitable worker? Have you been a dedicated member of a church? All of these accomplishments are relevant to a college admissions’ office, and showcasing your well-rounded achievements is critical during the referral process.

3) Talk to Your References - Express What You’re Intentions Are
Once you identify the right people to speak on your behalf, make sure they understand exactly what you’re out to achieve. They need to know more than just the simple fact that you’re applying for a college - give them all of the necessary data upfront and you’re guaranteed to get a more comprehensive, glowing endorsement. Provide the learning institution, specific individual (if known), and educational path you intend to pursue. Remind your references of the specific skills you’d like them to showcase, without being pushy or presumptions. Allow the references to put everything in their own words and insight, but the more you inform them about what you envision, the more targeted your final result will be.

Remember that ever element to the college admissions process is critical. While they may not all be weighed on the same level, references are an absolutely integral portion, as it gives admissions folks a chance to see you from the perspective of others. No matter how well you’re able to articulate and sell yourself, if you don’t provide equally compelling second and third opinions, you’ll likely not make it past the first stage of admission. Carefully selecting and informing your references is another fantastic way you can ensure you hear a resounding “yes” from your top-tier university choice.

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