Stellar Student Seems Superbly Set to Succeed!

Arguably, the easiest way to write a college recommendation letter is to start with a good sample letter and tweak it to reflect the specifics of the prson you're writing it for. The letter below is an excellent template for that.
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To the Departmental Admissions Committee:

It is with utmost pleasure that I write this letter for First Lastname who is applying for your graduate program. I have known First since September of 1998, when she enrolled in my _______ course. From the start, First was involved and engaged in the material, and her skill and interest was demonstrated by 100% scores on the midterm and final exams.

My course is a difficult one, involving the students in active learning tasks, and they are required to turn in a paper each week in addition to the exams. First always had her work in on time, and often it was turned in early. This was not common among my students; in fact, each semester several students complain about the workload and drop the course. First not only completed assignments and earned A's on all papers, but was proactive in questioning the material, and initiating discussions among the students on the topics being covered. In my 22 years of teaching this course, I have never had an undergraduate student volunteer to teach a class session -- First did so twice during the semester and introduced some techniques that I use to this day when I teach those topics.

First Lastname is the best student I have ever had -- we have stayed in contact over the years and meet regularly at conferences; I now consider her to be a colleague and not merely a former student. I believe you will agree that First is an excellent prospect for your program, and I look forward to hearing of her success as a (university leader) in the near future!

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,
My Name and email