REACHING OUT TO RECOMMENDERS

When reaching out to recommenders you want to keep these things in mind!

  1. Look at the requirements for the schools you’re applying to and make you sure you have at least 4-5 people to reach out to in case someone is busy and cannot write you a letter in time. 

  2. Have an updated CV ready! They’re going to ask for it, so just be prepared. If you have questions about the CV process ask a professor in your field of study, and look at their CV’s to get an idea on how you should format yours.

  3. Be ready to summarize your work, and talk about what you’re interested in studying in a graduate school program. Chances are unless they’ve worked with you very recently they’re going to need a refresher on your work and what you’re passionate about. Take this time to update them in a clear and concise way. Have an idea about what you want to study, and what you would like to do with your degree after graduation. You don’t have to know the exact job and title, but give them an idea; research, professor, policy work, etc.

  4. Give them at least 2 months notice. They’re busy, so the sooner the better!

  5. You can give them the links to send in your letter BEFORE you complete your parts of the application! Don’t do what I did, I recognized this very late, and then I was stressed making sure everyone got their letter in in time. But I could’ve sent them the links way in advance. 

  6. Check in with them a week or 2 before the due dates, just as a reminder. 

  7. Send a Thank You card. It’s a nice note, and more personal than an email. 

  8. Keep them up to date with your progress! Chances are you’re going to need their recommendation again for a summer program or internship, so maintain that rapport. And from my experience, professors like to know what students are up to. 

  9. Don’t be shy! Professors expect to receive this type of correspondence and are often willing to help unless they’re really unable to. 

  10. If they are unable to help at this time don’t take it personally. They’re really really busy! And this is why we have backups, it will work out, I promise!