Requesting a Letter of Recommendation

Similar to verbal references, letters of recommendation from supervisors, professors, advisors, etc. attest to your successes, character, progress and other impressive achievements. As with references, letters of recommendation should be provided by those who have great respect and appreciation for you and can communicate that. Here are a few tips on how to request one and who to request them from.

When are letters of recommendation most commonly requested?

  • Applications for undergraduate research programs

  • Graduate school applications

  • Study abroad program applications

  • Various scholarship applications

Who should you ask for a letter of recommendation?

  • Ask someone who:

  1. You worked closely with, including a job supervisor, an internship coordinator, a research mentor, someone who oversaw a volunteer experience, a club or academic advisor, a professor that knows you well, etc.
  2. Is able to discuss personal and professional characteristics, such as your capacity to work independently and collaboratively, your academic and leadership skills, etc.
  3. Is able to effectively evaluate your past performance
  4. Is able to comment on your potential for success

Note:

Do not ask your family members. This could create a conflict of interest.

How do I get to know a letter writer (including over Zoom)?

Here are some steps to building a relationship with a professor or mentor who you might want to request a letter of recommendation from at some point:

  • Introduce yourself to professors, advisors, or whoever you are interested in developing a relationship with.
  • Ask questions in class, during office hours, or over email often! This way, they begin to remember your name. 
  • Actively participate in various events where someone could get to know who you are (club events, volunteer events, seminars, etc.)
  • Have your video on in classes, speak up during class, make comments!

Send reminders and thank you letters

  • Send a friendly reminder
    • Remind the writer about the due date if you haven’t heard back or if you notice they haven’t submitted your application. Especially if they have agreed, please remind them 5 days before, 3 days before, or the day of.
  • Say thank you the 1st time
    • After your letter is submitted, send a thank you card or email. They committed time and effort to your success!
  • Say thank you the 2nd time
    • After you hear the news about your outcomes, send updates!
      • Regardless of the outcome, say thanks again. 
  • Stay connected with your letter writers, even after you graduate!
    • Add them on professional social media sites, including LinkedIn.
    • Send them email updates about your life and ask them how they’re doing.

Subject line: [Your name]: Letter of Recommendation Reminder 

 

Good afternoon [Recommenders name], 

I’m touching base with you about the letter of recommendation I had requested from you earlier this month. I understand you may be busy, but I just wanted to remind you that the letter is due by Saturday, November 21, 2020, at 11:59 pm. Please let me know if you have any additional questions or concerns.  

Thanks again for agreeing to write this letter for me!  

Best regards,  

[Your name] 

Subject line: [Your name]: Letter of Recommendation Reminder 

 

Good afternoon [Recommenders name], 

I’m touching base with you about the letter of recommendation I had requested from you earlier this month. I understand you may be busy, but I just wanted to remind you that the letter is due by Saturday, November 21, 2020, at 11:59 pm. Please let me know if you have any additional questions or concerns.  

Thanks again for agreeing to write this letter for me!  

Best regards,  

[Your name] 

Hello [Recommender’s name],  

I wanted to thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to write me a letter of recommendation. I greatly appreciate the time and effort you put into it. It is sure to help me during the application process.  

I am currently in the process of waiting to hear back from the scholarship committee. Thank you again, and I will be sure to keep you updated regarding the status of my application.  

Best regards,  

[Your name] 

Office of Undergraduate Research