How to get a good Reference Letter, Grad School Article

Besides submitting transcripts, supplementary materials and those all-important application fees you shouldn't downplay the importance of reference letters. It may be difficult to ask a professor for a letter of reference or recommendation but reference letters could make the difference between getting in to the graduate program you want and being turned away. With so many resources on reference letters-who to ask and what to provide-here is a quick summary on the process of getting a great reference letter for grad school. Give your reference plenty of time to write your letter. Nothing is worse than a professor telling you there wasn't enough time to write anything or that your letter was written at the last minute. Ideally you should provide your professor with at least three or four weeks, this will allow you to check back a few days before the deadline to ensure that the letter has been sent or faxed. How do you decide on which professor to ask? The best letters are from those who you have worked with closely- a research supervisor for example. The professor should be someone who can write your letter with authority, someone who has known you for more than six months. Your professor should be someone high up, a department chair, someone well-known whose opinion can be respected. Finally, the professor you choose should have a warm and supportive style and who can speak candidly about you and your ability as a future grad student. Give your professors a well organized, thorough package of information that they can use when writing the reference letter. You should include the following elements: · A current copy of your academic transcript showing the courses you've taken and the level at which you've performed. This does not have to be an official copy; a photocopy of your record is fine. · A copy of your academic vitae or résumé · If there is a form that goes with the letter, complete as much information as possible. Type in the professor's name, title and contact information e.g., telephone number, fax number, street address. That way, your professor can focus strictly on the recommendation itself. · A cover note briefly listing your contact information in case your professor needs to reach you, the deadline for each letter you need, your career aspirations and any information you would like emphasized in the letter. With the debate on whether or not to waive access to the letter of recommendation, it is better to answer yes. Answering otherwise gives the appearance of not trusting your professor, and it weakens the effectiveness of the letter. Because the professor you choose is important, it is best to begin cultivating personal relationships with potential references early on. If you are going to compete with people who have glowing letters of recommendation, a mildly positive letter from someone who doesn't really know you can actually do more harm than good.