This is my absolute LEAST favorite portion of any application process. I want to do things on my own. I hate putting people out–especially ones in positions of authority who I do not know that well. I also fear putting myself out on that limb and asking for a strong letter. I would just be mortified if someone said no! So here is my plan to cultivate the relationships that makes the letter-asking task a little less daunting. I’m going to do it all differently this time around!
How to garner the letters of recommendation–strong ones from influential people, that is:
select courses with small class sizes
participate in class
be enthusiastic about subject matter
help other students
regularly attend office hours
take on optional projectsdo independant study or research w/potential writer if possible
pick professors who write well, not necessarily super-popular or very successful ones.
take more classes with professors likely to write the strong letters
Ask for the letters at least 6 weeks in advance
provide the writer with info about me
Related articles
- Stop it! (thepolymind.wordpress.com)
- Letters of Recommendation: How Do I Get Em’ (doctororbust.wordpress.com)
- 10 Things you should think about before asking a former professor to write you a letter of recommendation: (docnyh.wordpress.com)
- Letters of Recommendation (labgeekblog.wordpress.com)
- Awkward Moments: Asking for a Reference or Letter of Recommendation (healthcareerconnection.wordpress.com)
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