Getting Great Letters of Recommendation

PRESENTED BY THE UW BOTHELL OFFICE OF MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS AND AWARDS AND THE CAREER CENTER

http://www.uwb.edu/careers/job-search-tools/recommendation

PRESENTED BY UW BOTHELL OFFICE OF MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS AND AWARDS AND THE CAREER CENTER

Letters of recommendation provide an external perspective on an applicant and highlight his/her strengths and suitability.

They are written by professors, mentors, employers, professional colleagues.

Foundation = relationships built over time


Indicate strong academic performance

List positive qualities of applicant

Make general recommendations

Demonstrate that the writer knows the student well

Indicate understanding of the letter’s purpose

Give specific examples of the student skills and experiences relevant to the opportunity

Take a look at these sample letters to see the difference.

http://www.uwb.edu/getattachment/careers/job-search-tools/recommendation/Letters-of-Recommendation---Samples.pdf


Network to build strong relationships

Pick the most strategic recommenders:

o Academic vs. professional references

o Alignment with program/scholarship goals

Give advance notice

What’s wrong with this email?


When making a letter of recommendation request, include:

1. Description of program/job/scholarship

2. Exact wording of what should be covered in the letter -> skills, qualifications and accomplishments to be highlighted

3. List of specific, relevant experience: class projects, research, papers and grades for faculty; responsibilities and accomplishments for supervisors

4. Resume, cover letter or personal statement used to apply

5. Deadline and specific submission instructions

6. Name and address of letter recipient


Communicate via one email trail

Be timely and responsive to additional information requests from your reference

Show thanks!

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Getting Great Letters of Recommendation

Education

Transcript of Getting Great Letters of Recommendation