Need a recommendation letter from a professor for a transfer
application, job opportunity or scholarship?
Read these recommendations first!
Why?
Select someone who knows you well and can best
speak to your potential. An EDU
professor would be a good choice when you are applying for transfer because of
his/her ability to comment on your academic performance and the teacher
dispositions that you possess.
Who?
When an application calls for recommendation
letters, read the information carefully to determine if you need a professional
reference from an employer or supervising teacher or an academic letter of
reference from a professor.
When?
Once you have determined that an academic letter
of reference is required, note the application deadline. Be sure that when you request a letter of
recommendation that your professor has plenty of time to write it. It is customary to make your request at least
2 weeks before the deadline, but earlier is better!
How?
It’s appropriate to make your initial request
for a letter of reference in person or by email. As clearly and politely as possible, explain
what you are hoping to be recommended for and when that letter needs to be
submitted. Once the professor agrees to
write the letter, be prepared to follow up by email with all of the pertinent
information.
What?
When you
send your follow-up email, thank your professor and include the following
information to help your professor write a positive and thorough recommendation
on your behalf.
- Information about the program, scholarship, or
job opportunity for which you are applying
- Due date and details about how the letter should
be submitted
- The name and address to whom the letter should
be addressed
- Your updated resume, including any relevant
professional experiences, extracurricular activities, or awards and
achievements
- An unofficial copy of your transcript or details
about which class(es) you took with the professor if some time has passed
- When possible, a draft of the letter or essay
that you are submitting as part of the application process