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Apply Yourself!Week Five

Letters of Recommendation

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We will learn…

what a letter of recommendation is. why it is necessary. who you should ask to write one. what you should give to your referrer. how to ask someone to write you a

letter.

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What Is a Letter of Recommendation?

A letter written on your behalf Can be written by a teacher, employer,

counselor, etc Your referrer recommends you to the school

you are applying to. You are often not allowed to see what the

referrer writes.

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Why Are They Necessary?

They help schools get a better picture of you. They can emphasize non-academic

accomplishments. They explain why you will be an asset to the

school from someone who knows you. Most schools require 1-3 as part of the

application.

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Who Should I Ask?

Ask someone who knows you personally and academically.

Ask someone who knows about your career plans.

Ask someone who will write a strong letter. Ask someone who will complete the letter on time. Check your application to see if they require a

specific person (counselor, teacher, etc.). Good examples: teachers, counselors,

employers, coaches, advisors, supervisors, etc.

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What Should I Give to My Referrer?

A recommendation form from the school (if applicable)

The address to send it (an addressed and stamped envelope too!)

A list of accomplishments so they have something to work with

A way to contact you with questions Plenty of time before the deadline A big Thank You!

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How to Ask?

If you know some of the faculty well, politely ask them to write you a letter and give them plenty of information.

If you aren’t very close with any school faculty, try one of the following statements:

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Starters:

Hi. I am applying to ______ and am looking for people to write me a letter of recommendation. I have a list of my interests and accomplishments to help. Would you be willing to write a letter on my behalf?

Hi. I am applying to _____ and was hoping you could write a letter of rec for me. If you need to know more about me, maybe we can meet after class? I have a list of my interests and accomplishments with me as well.

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References

Rochester, L., and Mandell, J. (1989). The one hour college applicant: You don’t need to read a 300-page book to apply to college. Memphis: Mustang Publishing Company.

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Questions??