|
Requesting Letters of Recommendation
|
Undergrad Life
|
By halewis
Posted Mon Jan 09, 2006 at 06:19:40 AM PDT
|
|
I have recently had several students ask me to write letters of recommendation for them, a task I often enjoy. Some of these recent requests, however, were presented in such a clear and organized manner that I wanted to capitalize on their hard work by summarizing steps that students can take to make the experience as easy and pleasant as possible.
Post a Comment
|
| First, allow your writers enough time - they may be particularly busy, going out of town, or writing many other letters at that same time. Individuals have different preferences, but two weeks is a good minimum estimate, although you should give more notice if your request is over a break or at a particularly busy time of the year. Keep in mind that a deadline is often a "must be received by" date rather than a postmark, and allow more time accordingly. Adapting previously written letters takes less time, but you should still allow at least a week (not including the time it would take in the mail).
Second, give writers as much information about the letter as you can. This includes any accompanying forms, when the letter is due (clarifying if that date is a "must be received by" date), to whom it should be addressed, and the address where it will be sent. If you would prefer that the letter be put in a sealed-and-signed envelope and returned to you to mail with other materials then indicate that, but you should always give writers the option of sending the letter directly.
Third, include as much information about the scholarship/job/program as you can. A simple source for this might be a copy of the application material or a printout of the web site. Clarify details such as which particular scholarship/job/program you are applying for. Knowing as much specific information as possible can be important for tailoring letters appropriately.
Fourth, include relevant information about yourself, such as a r |
|
|
