Letters of Recommendation

How to ask for a letter of recommendation:

• Give your recommender TIME–don’t wait until the last minute!
• CONNECT with your recommender FIRST! A brief in-person hello is best, or a phone call or email. ASK what they need from you in order to be able to give you a good letter.
• Give your recommender a “brag sheet” to help them remember how awesome you are! This is especially important for teachers and counselors who are writing a lot of recommendations for a lot of students. This is a good form to download, fill out, and give to your recommender.
• Follow up before the deadline with a SHORT and kind email.
• Thank them! This can be swinging by their classroom or office in person, an appreciation email, or even a thank you card.