Faculty and staff are the most important resource for students applying for nationally competitive scholarships. There are many ways to support the Office of Nationally Competitive Scholarships and our students:
- Host an information session in your class or at a student event
- Recommend a student to our office through the Stellar Scholars Nomination Form
- Serve as a campus advisor or campus committee reviewer
Whatever your role, we deeply value your time and commitment to helping students succeed.
Writing Recommendation Letters for Competitive Scholarships
One of the most important topics we discuss with students is selecting the right recommenders. We encourage students to choose individuals who are:
- Credible – appropriate credentials based on the scholarship review committee requirements
- Relevant – recommender's expertise relates to the student's goals
- Timely – familiar with the student through recent interactions
If you cannot write a strong letter—due to time constraints, limited familiarity, or lack of context—it’s best to decline politely:
“I may not be the best choice to write for you in this situation.”
A strong letter requires preparation. Its goal is to distinguish the student and leave a lasting impression. Consider these questions as you prepare your letters:
- What makes this student stand out from peers?
- Who is the audience and what do they need?
- How does this opportunity support the student’s goals?
- What strengths and areas for growth can I share?
For more guidance, explore the resource below or contact our office at ncs@appstate.edu for award-specific advice.
Writing a Fellowship Letter of Recommendation Reference Guide