College is right around the corner for Greeley West seniors and preparation is the only thing on their minds. Applications are a long and difficult process that seniors are willing to take on to continue to further their education by filling out FAFSA applications, submitting SAT scores, official transcripts and letters of recommendation to apply for higher education.

Students choose teachers with which they have strong and trusting relationships to write their letters of recommendation.  Teachers use the opportunity to writer the letters to represent the student’s achievements and work ethic. Although the letters are focused on academics, teachers like to outline the student’s character and they work hard to make them stand out against competing peers. Ms. Lea Sanford, having written a few this year herself, says that the process, “can go one of two ways. I either know the student really well and I’m are able to brag on the student or I’m not as close to the students and the process is more difficult to make them look good while being honest.”

Letters are typically submitted online, just like most applications.  Submission of the letters are due to the college when the scholarship or application are due. Most universities require letters of recommendation from their applicants.

Belle Whitmore, a graduating junior applying to Lincoln Memorial University, said, “applying is both exciting and nerve-racking, but I like to choose teachers who I have a personal and positive relationships with.”