To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Allen Cheng for admission to your
school. In my three years of working with him, he has demonstrated the
qualities necessary for high success in the demanding academic atmosphere
of a high caliber university as well as the social skills needed to be successful
in college.

Academically, he is an extremely strong student, earning an A both semesters

in AP Junior English (a feat few accomplish), and A's throughout his high
school career. He consistently exhibits dedication and vigor in all that he
approaches. He is a member of the National Honor Society, the California
Scholarship Federation, and an integral part of the Jisan Research Institute. He
is a vital member of all that he is a part of.

Outside of the classroom, Allen's passion is for research. He has a brilliant and
lightning quick mind; he is a fantastic scientist, one with great charisma and
leadership skills. Though he is a year younger than the rest of his class, he is
heads and shoulders above them. He has been more than ready for all that a
major university has to offer for quite some time.

Perhaps one of Allen's most outstanding characteristics is his independence of

thought and his willingness to express those thoughts. In other situations where
students-would never speak their minds, he showed no hesitation to voice
questions, thoughts, and ideas. He was always an active participant in class
discussions, his animated character and controversial positions often being
the spark that set off the entire class to an impassioned and heated period of
arguing, often with him at the focal point of one side or another.

His other qualities are of equal magnitude – his leadership skills came to
forefront in group projects where he took charge, assuming the majority of
the work and responsibility, ensuring that everything was completed in a
timely manner and to his extremely high standards. He also has the ability to
take the quiet and shy student and actively engage him or her, transforming
that student into an active member of the class. I went out of my way to
partner him with other students who needed this kind of attention and
encouragement.

Another quality that sets him apart from other student leaders is his strength of
conviction. He will argue on any topic that has touched a nerve. He breathes
with raw, unbridled passion. It is a rare gift in a person of any age; in
someone just 16, it is breathtaking. He is honest, never stooping to cheat; he is
entertaining, relying on wit, knowledge, and intelligence to persuade. Friends
rely on him; he is attentive to their true needs. Teachers enjoy him in their
classes.

I recommend Allen completely, with no hesitation. He will make his mark and
be known.

Judith Swift