By Jane Shepard
You already know that you will need to submit letters of recommendation for your grad school or professional school application, but how and when should you start the process? Hopefully these guidelines will help you feel more comfortable with the timeline and the process.
When choosing letter writers, you definitely want to make sure that you select people who really know you well and can comment on your professional qualities - including your performance in a classroom or work setting, your ability to clearly communicate, and your suitability and passion for the program. Different programs will have different requirements for the types of letters they require. Examples of this could be individual letters vs. committee letters, a specific number of letters from academic or professional sources, or free-form vs. standardized letters. You will need to pay close attention to the requirements, since they will vary from school to school. In general, you should not ask for letters of recommendation from family members or friends. It is also important to choose a letter writer not just for their prestige or perceived influence. Choosing the right letter writers for a program is all important since the content of these letters really matter in the overall review process.
In general, it is often easier for students at smaller colleges and universities to develop relationships with potential academic letter writers. If you find that you need to “grow” a relationship, show interest in class, take advantage of office hours, and get involved with activities like research or leadership. Start thinking about who you might ask even if you have not started the application process yet. In addition to academic letters, think about who might be able to write letters from other parts of your life, like research labs, job settings, mentors, and volunteer supervisors.
When approaching a potential letter writer, ask about 2-3 months before the letter is due. Don’t assume that they will agree to write a letter, but hopefully they will. After somebody agrees to write a recommendation, be prepared to provide them with information that will make it easier for them to promote you and your characteristics. Sending a copy of your transcript, resume, and your application personal statement (even if it is a draft), will give them some helpful context. Be prepared to send friendly reminders if the letters are due and have not yet been submitted. Although this may feel awkward, most letter writers are aware of the issue of impending deadlines and will not be offended. Ask if they need additional information from you and of course, express your appreciation. And after the letter has been submitted, don’t forget to send a thank you note!If you need help with this part of your application process, reach out to us at info@galined.com for a free 30 min. consultation, so our experts can guide you and answer your questions.
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