UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

Who to ask, How to ask and What to expect

How do I decide who to ask for a recommendation?

Application Materials

The application materials can really help you in choosing the correct person to write your letter. Some applications, for instance, may ask you to submit a letter that speaks to your academic ability. Obtaining a letter from a former professor who can speak on your academic achievements may be preferable to a former boss who may know more about your work style than your academic abilities.

If you need multiple recommendations

If your application requires more than two letters, it is wise to seek letters from people who can comment on your different strengths and comment on a diverse range of attributes. You want to paint a complete picture of yourself for the selection committees. For example, one letter could talk about your outstanding leadership skills, one could address your passion for your research project or honors thesis and one could comment on your time as a volunteer at the local homeless shelter.

How and when to ask for a recommendation.

Make and appointment

Do not stop someone in the hallway on the way to class and ask if she can write you a letter of recommendation. Make an appointment with the individual to discuss whatever you are applying for and how she can help you. Ask them if they would be able to write a strong letter of recommendation for you.

Let each recommenders know who your other recommenders are, so that they can write letters that can complement each other and not repeat each other.

What to provide the individual

Prepare a packet of concise information about the scholarship/award for which you are applying. It is also helpful to provide them with:

1. A draft copy of an application essay, personal statement, project proposal and/or course of study proposal. You want to help the recommender to know you as a student and as a person. It is also helpful for them to know what your plans are as it relates to the scholarship or fellowship.
2. A current transcript. It does not need to be an official copy. You want to give the recommender an overview of your academic record and achievements.
3. A current resume, or a list your of activities, special achievements, significant events or learning experience. Be sure to include any research experience, work experience, community service work, leadership experience, etc.
4. Bring any cover sheets or official recommendation forms that should accompany the letter. Be sure to complete any sections that pertains to you: name, address, etc.
5. Be sure you know to whom the letter should be addressed. Provide a deadline for when the letter is due. Let them know when you will pick up the letter. Or, if it needs to be mailed by the writer, provide them with a stamped addressed envelope.
6. If you are asking for more than one letter of recommendation, provide the following information on a separate sheet of paper, as well as a stamped and addressed envelope for each letter.
   1. To whom the letter should be addressed
   2. Whether the letter should be mailed directly to the agency or returned to you or the Office of Undergraduate Studies
   3. The deadline of each letter. Be sure to distinguish between a "postmark" and "received by" date.

Be prepared to remind the writer of an upcoming deadline. But so not to be a pest.

Finally, be sure to write your recommender a letter of thanks and let them know what happens.

What if they say No

How to respond

If someone you ask seems to be saying "no" to you, you should ask someone else. The person may be inappropriate, too busy or may not know you well enough to write you a good letter.

If they do not directly say "no", but respond in a way that makes you uncertain about the strength of their support letter, gracefully accept that, thank them for their honesty and ask someone else.