TIPS FOR OBTAINING A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION

If you are thinking of going on to graduate or professional schools you should start thinking about getting your letters of recommendation now, so that you’re prepared when it’s time to submit applications (usually during autumn term of your senior year).  You will also need letters for internships, awards, scholarships, and jobs.  Let’s take a look at the ins and outs of developing relationships that lead to getting good recommendation letters.

Most faculty and staff members consider writing thoughtful and supportive letters an important part of their jobs and are happy to help you, but there are several things that drive them crazy: (1) last-minute requests, (2) requests from students they do not know, and (3) requests that do not include the information they need to do a good job.

Choose the letter writer carefully. It should be someone who knows you well in the context of the position you are applying for and who can speak specifically and sincerely about the qualities that make you the ideal candidate for the job, graduate program or scholarship. This is one (of several) very good reasons you should get to know at least one, and preferably two or three, faculty in your major area. This does not mean “suck up” -- find faculty with whom you share some intellectual or professional interests and develop a relationship that makes you stand out. Some suggestions are: taking more than one of their classes and participating actively in those classes; pursuing opportunities to work with them, such as undergraduate research projects or a student organization related to the field; and stopping by during their office hours a couple times during the term just to talk about the subject and your goals.

Give the person enough time and information to do a good job -- two weeks is the bare minimum in most cases and more is always appreciated. Some faculty have their own guidelines about what they need (Ask!), but here are some generally applicable suggestions about what to include with your letter request:

• Your resume. It should include educational and work history, relevant extracurricular activities and awards, community and volunteer involvement.
• Description of the job or position you are seeking.
• Any requirements or suggestions by the employer or graduate program for the letter, including the name, title and address of the person to whom it should be addressed.
• Instructions about how and when the letter is to be sent. Often it must be sent directly to a particular person and/or be accompanied by a form.
• Concise and specific reminders of the ways you have interacted with the letter writer. While Professor Jones may remember you well, it’s still very helpful to remind her exactly which classes you were in and of your specific contributions to projects. Be sure to note experiences that tie directly to the position you’re applying for.

Finally, don’t forget to follow up. A thank you note sent by U.S. Mail that says “I was admitted to law school” or “I didn’t get this job, but I’m still looking” will be appreciated and help ensure a favorable response if you need another letter down the road.

This document was written by
Richard A. Hollingsworth, J.D.  
Vice President for Student Affairs
The Ohio State University