University Writing

Writing Letters of Recommendation

University Writing, BYU

2008

 

Professional schools consider a letter of recommendation/evaluation a critical aspect of an individual’s application portfolio.  Each of the letters is thoroughly read and will have an impact on the admissions committee.  A key point to remember is that the LOR is the primary source that provides insight to the applicant’s personality and personal characteristics.  The more personalized and specific the assessment is, the more valuable it will be for the applicant.

 

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 from the student (such as those items listed below.)

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

Remember to always follow up every general statement with specific evidence or illustrations.  The list below will give you ideas of topics to cover. Pay particular attention to topics mentioned on the LOR instructions. Tie your observations to what you know the evaluators are looking for.

Interpersonal skills.  Comment on ability to collaborate, interact with peers, respond appropriately to criticism, or potential for leadership.

Personal attributes. Discuss maturity, motivation, perseverance, judgment, compassion, empathy, integrity, honesty, poise, patience, flexibility, or ability to handle conflict

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; also the potential for continuing intellectual and professional growth.

Course work. Describe the course and notable assignments.

Honors, scholarships, or awards. Be careful not to duplicate résumé; include your personal knowledge of the honor.

Weaknesses. Certainly mention weaknesses if you are aware of them. If the weakness can be seen as a strength (i.e. “works too hard”), put that in perspective. If you want to recommend the student in spite of some significant weakness, you should make that clear, of course.

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, Preprofessional Advisement Center.

“Dear Letter of Recommendation Writer.” Catherine Bramble, J.D., former Prelaw 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