Q: I need a letter of recommendation (LOR). How do I get started?
I write *a lot* of letters of recommendation for students seeking internships, scholarships, or jobs, and I am often pleased to do so. Bear in mind that effective letters of recommendation are SPECIFIC letters of recommendation and take time to write. Plan early and ASK early. I typically need a minimum of two weeks’ notice for letters.
Q: What type of information do you need from me to write this LOR?
I need a fair amount of information, including a personal statement of your interest and what you’re applying for, any courses you took with me (and when), specific things you hope I mention in your letter, when you graduated (if applicable), your contact information, and your timeframe for needing this LOR.
Q: I did OK, but not fabulous in your class(es) in terms of the grade I earned and am nervous about asking for a LOR. What should I do?
Ask anyway. Bear in mind that grades, while important, are not the end all/be all for LORs. Future employers, supervisors, and scholarship givers often want letter writers to provide an overall assessment of a student, not just academic achievement. Specifically, students who demonstrate marked improvement and/or growth in research, writing, and oral communication skills have acquired valuable skills that employers and funders want to hear about from us as letter writers. This is why I ask students to let me know of specific examples of experiences in my classes or outcomes from it you want me to mention. At the same time, students who took classes from me but had poor attendance and participation and/or did not complete work fully or on time would be well served to look elsewhere for a LOR.