Students! You have reached the point in your life when the relationships you have taken the time to build with the adults in your life become very important! It’s time to ask for letters of recommendation! These letters are valuable tools in moving forward and testify of your character, accomplishments, leadership ability, and work ethic. You will utilize these letters for scholarships, special program references, and even for clubs/organizations in which you would like to become a member during your freshman year of college. Students remember the process of asking for letters may challenge your comfort zone. Still, it is also a fantastic opportunity to grow in communication/self-advocacy skills and become more college ready!
Here are some Letters of Recommendation Do’s and Don’ts:
Choose adults that have impacted you ‘professionally’- meaning they have helped you advance in school or the marketplace (choose 3-5 adults to ask).
Do present them with a written request, details about yourself, instructions for how you will obtain the letter, correspond with them, and a deadline for when you will need the letter.
Do let them know you will check back with them in a few days to see if they have any questions about the information you provided.
Do thank them with a note or a small token of appreciation.
Do request two copies of the signed letter- one to submit and one to keep for your records.
Don’t request a letter without attaching a resume, academic snapshot, summary of your future academic goals, and personal goals.
Don’t request a letter less than a week before a scholarship or admissions deadline (3 weeks time is recommended).
Don’t request a letter without following up. You MUST follow up. Do not make it their responsibility to track you down.
Don’t request just a few! Ask at least five people so you can be guaranteed to obtain 2-3 great letters. Coaches, teachers, counselors, employers, pastors, and family friends are great resources for requesting letters.
