Requesting a letter of recommendation?
Recommendation letters are used to pass along information to a reviewer that typically would not be found on paper. For example, these letters can talk about your motivation, work ethic, communication skills, leadership style, passion for the subject, etc. Thus, it is important that you select someone to write your letter who knows you a better than what you got on your midterm and that you were in class every day. This takes time and effort. Typically you should be working on building these relationships before you have an application due. Talk to that person before and after class, be noticeable in class, and stop by their office hours. Take the time and build the relationship- the effort will pay off. Haven’t seen that person in a while? Reach out via e-mail and keep them informed on your progress- maintain that connection.
So you’ve put the effort into building a relationship with me and you’re ready to ask for a letter of recommendation. What information should you provide in your e-mail?
So you’ve put the effort into building a relationship with me and you’re ready to ask for a letter of recommendation. What information should you provide in your e-mail?
- Resume/CV
- What you are applying to- link to description or tell me about it
- Why you want this position and some areas you think I should highlight which should make your application competitive
- If I haven’t seen you in a semester, provide your availability for a brief meeting to catch up on what you have been up to
- Where do I send the letter to and whom is it addressed to
- Due date: MINIMUM OF TWO WEEKS
- Any other information which you think is helpful for me to write a compelling letter