The selection committee at the school you’re dreaming of is down to one spot left. They are trying to decide between you and someone who has similar grades, test scores, etc. You know what the tie breaker is going to be? Your letters of recommendation. While it may not be a make or break sort of deal, it could very well be what tips the scales in your favor. The problem is that your letter writers are not just busy, you are probably one of a dozen or so requests that they’ve received.
You can get off on the right foot by asking in person and asking early. Also, make sure you are doing things to stand out for them. You shouldn’t have to remind them of whom you are when you ask for a letter of recommendation.
Here are our 6 things you need to provide your letter writers to get the best endorsement from them that you can.
- Logistics by Email or Preferred Method
How long it needs to be, required documentation, where to send it, all those things should be clearly and cleanly spelled out for them in simple email they can reference. If they have to figure these things out on their own, they will put off submitting your letter. Also be aware that email may not be best for them, so be prepared to provide written instructions as well.
This is also a really good time to remind them of who you are, what work you’ve done with them and why you chose them for their endorsement. While they may remember you when they see you, they might struggle when only looking at a name.
- Key Qualities
There are certain key qualities that selection committees look for every year. By providing these to your letter writer, you can prod them into using phrasing that will help you stand out. Even if you feel they don’t apply to you, they might! You can also use this to try elicit letters that highlight the areas you need them to.
Below is a list compiled in 2016. You may want to research to see if there is a new trend while you are applying.
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- Personal Statement
You have to write it anyway, right? This can give them great insight into why you are choosing this field. It also gives them the opportunity to reinforce the messaging in your statement or to fill in gaps, if needed.
- Your Resume
This one should seem obvious, but make sure they have a copy! Again, just provides a more full picture of who you are when they are writing their letter. They will not know all of the information on there, so help them know you better. This is especially good if your work history or extracurricular activities are an strong suit for your application. It gives them a chance to make reference to any experiences they deem fit.
- School Mission Statement
This is a little tougher if you are applying to multiple schools, but even then it may be worth providing all of them. Schools spend a lot of time developing these statements and they reflect who that school wants to be. Having the mission statement in hand, your letter writer can emphasize how you can fit into this idealized student body and experience the school has.
- Reasoning for this School
Last but not least, give them a bullet point list of why you are interested in this school in particular. Maybe it’s class size, notable instructors, specific fields of research, whatever. Again, this will allow them to speak to your preferences as well as compliment the school.
And of course, remind them how grateful you are for not only their time but for being willing to endorse you. Each person who agrees to writing a letter for you is essentially lending you the weight of their reputation. This is not always an easy thing to do!
Down and dirty, but these tips will absolutely help your letter writers come up with better content. You can easily compile all this information into one document and either send it to your letter writer or print it off for them. Hell, do both so you are sure that they have all the tools they need!