A+ teacher who barely knows me or a B+ teacher who watched me improve all year? (rec letters)
I have an A+ in AP Bio but the teacher barely knows me. I sat in the back, did well on tests, never talked much. I have a B+ in AP Lang but that teacher loves me. I went to her office hours like every week, my essays went from C's to A's, and she told me I was one of the most improved students she's had.
I want to major in biology so I feel like I'm supposed to ask the Bio teacher. But the Lang letter would probably be way better? Who should I ask? Can I ask both?
Deadlines are in about 5 weeks so I need to ask this week.
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Ask the Lang teacher. A detailed letter from someone who watched you work hard and improve is worth more than a short one from a teacher who can only confirm your grade.
For the second letter:
1. A math or science teacher is a good pairing for a biology applicant, and some engineering and science programs require one. Check your schools.
2. If the AP Bio teacher is your best STEM option, ask, and help them: give them a short sheet with specific moments from the class, a project you liked, and what you want to study.
3. Ask in person, early, and follow up with a thank-you note.Most schools want two teacher letters. Some allow an optional extra letter. Use extras only if they add something new.