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University Writing

Letter of Recommendation

Writing Letters of Recommendation
University Writing, BYU
2007
 
Getting Started
Decide whether to do it.
Do you know the student well enough?
Do you have time to write a good letter?
Do you feel you can write a positive letter?
If you do not plan to write a positive letter, inform the student of the things you feel you must address.
 
Get the information you need
Writing samples
List of relevant experiences with you (including dates): courses, research work, paid work, internships, and so forth.
Detailed narrative description of experiences the student has shared with you, to help you include specific evidence for your claims
Personal statement, résumé, transcripts, so your letter can reinforce but not duplicate the rest of the application
The waiver statement to be submitted with the letter, signed by the student
 
Drafting
Opening
Explain your relationship to the student, how long and in what context.
Here or elsewhere in your letter, describe your qualifications. “I have been teaching for twenty years and have advised about 450 students . . .”
Express your recommendation and indicate 2-4 qualities that support that assessment (this is like a thesis statement).
 
Body
Choose from the following list the most applicable aspects to discuss. Always follow up every general statement with specific evidence or illustrations.
Course work. Describe the course, difficulty, grade, notable assignments.
Intellectual ability. Note oral and written communication skills, listening and observational abilities, attention to detail, diligence, organizational skills, originality, resourcefulness, capacity for critical thinking, problem-solving skills, or research potential.
Interpersonal skills.  Comment on ability to collaborate, interact with peers, respond appropriately to criticism, or potential for leadership.
Personal attributes. Discuss maturity, motivation, compassion, empathy, integrity, honesty, poise, patience, flexibility, or ability to handle conflict.
Honors, scholarships, or awards. Be careful not to duplicate résumé; include your personal knowledge of the honor.
Weaknesses. You may include some mild criticism, usually a weakness that could be a strength.
Comparisons. Compare the student to others you have known. Share the length of time you have taught and the kind of students you are comparing with. Try to quantify your assessment. (“He was in the top 10% of the class.”)
 
Conclusion
Briefly summarize your points and clearly state your level of recommendation.
Offer to answer any questions and make your contact information available.
 
Warnings
If you cut and paste, be sure the names, pronouns, etc., are adjusted.
Don’t restate information the admissions committee already has (transcript, résumé).
Don’t exaggerate or inflate.
Avoid unsubstantiated superlatives and vague generalities.
Don’t comment on gender, race, religion, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, citizenship status, marital status, political affiliation, appearance, family background, or other personal circumstances unless these factors are relevant and compelling.
 
Finishing up
Use letterhead stationery and a standard font (10--12 point).
You can address the letter to “Admissions Committee” or “Selection Committee.”
Include your full name and professional title with signature.
Be respectful of deadlines.
As requested, either mail the letter directly, give to the student (sign across the envelope’s seal), or submit online.
 
Choosing Topics Relevant to Special Audiences
Law
Trustworthiness
Potential for the study of law
 
Medicine/Health professions
Knowledge and suitability for intended profession
Motivation for medicine
Maturity
 
Business
Leadership ability
Personal achievements
Candidate’s insight into his or her own assets and liabilities
Potential for the study of business
 
Academic Graduate School
Potential for graduate study
Knowledge of field of study
Intellectual characteristics
 
Prestigious scholarships
Be aware of the requirements of the scholarship
Show how the student is exceptionally qualified to meet those requirements
 
 
Sources
“Writing a Prehealth Letter of Recommendation: General Primer and Instructions for Faculty Recommendations.” David Kaiser. Director, Health Professions Advisement.
“Dear Letter of Recommendation Writer.” Catherine Bramble, J.D., Preprofessional Director, BYU.
“Faculty Guide to letters of Recommendation.” Office of Prestigious Scholarships & Fellowships. http://opsf.byu.edu/Faculty/Advice/Howtowritealetterofrecommendation.aspx
“Guidelines For Writing Letters of Recommendation.” http://career.berkeley.edu/Letter/LetterGuidelines.stm
“10 Tips for Recommenders.” Http://www.accepted.com/grad/lettersrec.aspx
 
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