General Resource : Resources for Graduate Schools >> 2. Apply for Grad Schools

• Letters of Recommendations for applying for graduate schools
• Submitted by Joe Wilson on 2010-01-10
• Who do I ask for my Letters of Recommendation?
  

  • Graduate programs are looking for assurance of your strong academic dedication and performance.
  • Get at least one letter from a major professor in your field.
  • Look for someone who has a high opinion of you and knows your work well enough to vouch for it.
  • The recommender should be a respected peer and in a position to evaluate your performance that speaks to the Admissions Committee members.
  • You may consider other professors who know you well and are willing to give you a strong, positive recommendation.
  • If you know your advisor for student clubs, academic advisor, your dean or other administrators, these will also be good letter writers.
     
  • Get to know your faculty members early in your college career.
  • Work or volunteer in the department, complete undergraduate research or other activities.

  
  How Do I ask for my Letters of Recommendation?

  • Ask well in advance of the due date.
  • Ask cordially and formally; make an appointment to meet with the person you are seeking the letter from and take with you a brief description of your plans and the degree programs to which you’re applying. You may also provide them with a resume and your academic transcripts.
  • Provide them with all the information they need to return the letter including the full name, title, and complete mailing address. Provide them with pre-stamped and self addressed envelopes.
  • If the application asks if you agree to waive your rights to view the letter, you should always agree; not doing so may raise suspicion.
  • Send a thank you note the individuals who have taken the time to write your letters.

  
  
   
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