Requesting letters of recommendation can be stressful, but Naviance simplifies the process. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to effectively request letters of recommendation through Naviance, ensuring you receive strong support for your college applications.
Understanding Naviance's Recommendation System
Naviance is a college planning platform used by many high schools. Its recommendation system streamlines the process for both students and recommenders. It allows you to:
- Easily manage multiple requests: Track the status of each request in one place.
- Provide recommenders with essential information: Automatically share your resume, transcripts, and essays.
- Set deadlines: Ensure your recommenders have ample time to write thoughtful letters.
- Receive notifications: Stay updated on the progress of your requests.
Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting Recommendations on Naviance
1. Accessing the Recommendation Request Section:
Log into your Naviance account. Navigate to the "Colleges" or "Post-Secondary" section. Look for a tab or link specifically labeled "Recommendations," "Letter of Recommendation," or something similar. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your school's Naviance setup.
2. Selecting Recommenders:
You'll be prompted to select your recommenders. This usually involves searching for their names within your school's database. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths convincingly. Consider teachers who taught you in challenging courses, counselors who have worked with you extensively, or other professionals familiar with your academic abilities and personal qualities.
3. Providing Necessary Information:
After selecting your recommenders, you'll need to provide essential information. This typically includes:
- Deadlines: Set realistic deadlines, giving your recommenders ample time (at least 2-3 weeks, ideally longer). Remember to factor in potential delays.
- Colleges/Universities: Specify which colleges you're applying to. Naviance will usually allow you to add multiple colleges or send different recommendations to different schools.
- Personal Statements/Essays (Optional): Some systems allow you to upload your personal statement or essays, giving your recommenders crucial context.
- Resume/Activities List (Recommended): Providing your resume or activities list helps your recommenders highlight your achievements and contributions accurately.
- Transcripts (Optional): This may be automatically included depending on your school's settings.
4. Writing a Personalized Message (Crucial):
This is arguably the most important step. While Naviance provides a framework, use the personalized message section to:
- Thank your recommender: Express sincere gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Reiterate your strengths: Briefly highlight your key skills, achievements, and qualities relevant to your application.
- Provide context: Offer any additional information that might help your recommender write a stronger letter (e.g., a specific project you excelled in, an overcoming of a challenge, etc.).
- Remind them of the deadline: Gently remind them of the deadline you've set.
5. Sending the Request:
Once you've reviewed all the information, send the request. Naviance will notify your chosen recommenders via email.
6. Following Up:
After sending your requests, follow up with your recommenders, especially as the deadline approaches. A polite email or a brief in-person conversation can ensure they haven't overlooked the request. Do not pressure them, but a gentle reminder is acceptable.
Tips for Success:
- Request early: Begin the process well in advance of deadlines.
- Choose wisely: Select recommenders who know you well and can write compelling letters.
- Provide ample information: Help your recommenders by providing all the necessary materials.
- Personalize your message: A thoughtful message significantly increases your chances of receiving a strong recommendation.
- Be organized: Keep track of all your requests and deadlines.
- Express gratitude: Thank your recommenders for their time and effort, both before and after they submit their letters.
By following these steps and tips, you'll confidently navigate the letter of recommendation process via Naviance and increase your chances of college admission success. Remember, strong recommendations are invaluable assets to your applications.
