Letters of Recommendation That Open Doors
Strong recommendation letters can make or break your college application. I’ll help you identify the right recommenders, create compelling brag sheets, and ensure your letters highlight exactly what admissions officers want to see.
Why Recommendations Matter
Grades and test scores show what you’ve done—your transcript is evidence of effort and achievement. But recommendation letters reveal who you are when nobody’s watching. They tell the story of how you handle challenges, contribute to discussions, and grow from feedback. A great letter adds depth to your application and shows the person behind the numbers.
Most students don’t realize how much control they have over recommendations. The right choice of recommenders, the information you provide, and how you ask can shape a letter that truly stands out. I help you secure specific, compelling recommendations that highlight your strengths and make admissions officers advocate for you in committee meetings.
How We'll Get You Strong Recommendations
With over 20 years of tutoring and admissions experience, I provide customized one-on-one sessions—either in person or via Zoom—designed to help you present your best self.
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We’ll figure out who should write your letters—teachers who actually know you, not just who gave you an A.
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You’ll create a detailed brag sheet with specific stories and accomplishments your recommenders can reference.
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I’ll help you ask for recommendations professionally—the right timing, the right approach, and exactly what to say.
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We’ll provide your recommenders with talking points so their letters highlight your strengths strategically.
How I Help
With over 20 years of tutoring and admissions experience, I provide customized one-on-one sessions—either in person or via Zoom—designed to help you present your best self.
01
Choosing the right recommenders based on what colleges want to see and who knows you best.
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Building your brag sheet with specific examples, achievements, and stories recommenders can use.
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Crafting your request email or conversation—professional, clear, and making it easy for them to say yes.
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Providing recommenders with a guidance sheet highlighting what to emphasize about your strengths and character.
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Following up appropriately, sending thank you notes, and keeping track of deadlines without being annoying.
This Service Is Perfect For...
Choosing the right recommenders can be tricky. You might worry a teacher’s letter will be too generic, had a rough year, or that “hard worker, good student” won’t stand out. You may also need letters from coaches, mentors, or employers but aren’t sure how to ask, and timing—when to request and how to follow up—can feel stressful.
This service makes your recommendations strategic. We ensure they complement your application and tell your story, not just repeat your transcript or essay. Most students just hope for the best—together, we’ll get strong, specific letters that truly make you stand out.
FAQs
The questions every student asks about getting strong letters of recommendation. Don’t see your question? Ask during our free consultation.
How many recommendations do I need?
Most colleges require 1-2 teacher letters plus a counselor letter. Some schools allow additional supplemental letters from coaches or mentors.
Who should I ask for recommendations?
Junior or senior year teachers in core subjects who know you well and can tell specific stories about your work, not just who gave you your highest grade.
When should I ask for recommendations?
Spring of junior year or early senior year—give recommenders at least 4-6 weeks before your earliest deadline, more if possible.
What if I don't have a close relationship with teachers?
We’ll identify who knows you better than you think and create a brag sheet that gives them plenty of material to work with.
Can I see what my recommenders write?
No, you waive your right to see letters when you submit applications—but that’s actually good because it makes letters more credible to colleges.
What if a recommendation is late?
I’ll help you set up polite reminder systems and track deadlines so letters get submitted on time without awkward conversations.
Testimonials
For more than 20 years, David Greenhouse Tutoring has helped students build scores, gain confidence, and earn admissions that felt once unachievable. Families call him foundational and integral to what has been crucial life decisions—and the results speak for themselves.
Ready to Strengthen Your Application?
I’ve seen firsthand how stressful this process can feel — for students and for parents. My job is to make it manageable, structured, and effective. Whether it’s through essays, recommendations, or interviews, I’ll help you present the very best version of yourself.