When a student applies for a scholarship or a job, the selection committee often asks for a character reference. A character reference is a letter from someone who knows the student personally, highlighting their positive qualities and recommending them for the position or scholarship. In this article, we will discuss how to write a character reference for a student, and provide some examples for you to use as a guide.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference for a Student
Here are some tips for writing a character reference for a student:
1. Introduction
Begin your letter with a formal greeting and introduce yourself. Mention the name and designation of the person you are writing the letter for, and the purpose of the letter. You can start with phrases such as “I am writing this letter to recommend [name of the student] for [position/scholarship]”.
2. Explanation
In the next paragraph, explain how you know the student and for how long you have known them. Mention the student’s qualities that make them a good fit for the position or scholarship they are applying for.
3. Examples
Provide examples of situations where the student demonstrated their positive qualities. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
4. Conclusion
In the final paragraph, summarize your recommendation and encourage the selection committee to consider the student’s application. Provide your contact information in case the committee has any further questions.
Examples of Character Reference for a Student
Recommendation for Student Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend John Smith for the scholarship. As his former teacher, I have known John for the past four years and have found him to be one of the most intelligent and hardworking students I have ever taught.
John’s academic achievements are impressive, but what sets him apart is his dedication to community service. He has volunteered at several organizations and has always shown a genuine interest in helping others.
I strongly recommend John for the scholarship. He is an excellent candidate and I have no doubt he will make the most of this opportunity.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Recommendation for Student Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend Sarah Johnson for the internship program. I have known Sarah for the past year as her mentor at the local youth center.
During her time at the youth center, Sarah has shown a great deal of initiative and creativity. She has organized several successful events and has been a positive role model for the younger children. Sarah is a natural leader and has a talent for motivating others.
I am confident that Sarah would be an asset to your organization and would make the most of this internship opportunity. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Recommendation for Student Admission
Dear Admission Committee,
I am writing to recommend Michael Brown for admission to your university. I have known Michael for the past three years as his academic advisor.
Michael is an outstanding student, with a passion for learning and a strong work ethic. He has taken several advanced courses and has consistently earned high grades. Michael is also an excellent team player and has collaborated successfully on several group projects.
I strongly recommend Michael for admission to your university. He is a dedicated student and would make a valuable contribution to your community.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Recommendation for Student Leadership Program
Dear Selection Committee,
I am writing to recommend Alex Williams for the student leadership program. I have known Alex for the past two years as his coach on the school debate team.
Alex has excellent communication skills and is a natural leader. He has led the debate team to several victories and has also mentored younger students. Alex is also very organized and has the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
I strongly recommend Alex for the student leadership program. He has the potential to make a positive impact on his peers and the wider community.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Recommendation for Student Volunteer Work
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend Emily Wilson for volunteer work at your organization. I have known Emily for the past year as her supervisor at the local animal shelter.
Emily is a compassionate and dedicated volunteer, who has shown a great deal of empathy towards the animals. She has also helped with fundraising events, and has been successful in securing several donations for the shelter.
I am confident that Emily would be an excellent addition to your volunteer team. She is a responsible and reliable person, who always goes above and beyond what is expected of her.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Recommendation for Student Job
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend David Lee for the job opening at your company. I have known David for the past three years as his supervisor at the local supermarket.
David is a hardworking and reliable employee, who always completes his tasks on time and to the best of his ability. He is also a quick learner and has excellent customer service skills.
I strongly recommend David for the job opening. He is an asset to any company and would be a valuable addition to your team.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Recommendation for Student Award
Dear Awards Committee,
I am writing to recommend Jessica Adams for the student award. I have known Jessica for the past two years as her teacher in the music department.
Jessica is an exceptional student, with a natural talent for music. She has won several competitions and has also volunteered to teach younger students. Jessica is also a well-rounded individual, with a strong sense of community and social responsibility.
I strongly recommend Jessica for the student award. She is a role model for her peers and an inspiration to others.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference for a student?
A character reference is a letter from someone who knows the student personally, highlighting their positive qualities and recommending them for a position or scholarship.
Who can write a character reference for a student?
A character reference can be written by a teacher, coach, employer, mentor, or any individual who knows the student well.
What should be included in a character reference for a student?
A character reference should include the student’s positive qualities, examples of situations where the student demonstrated these qualities, and a recommendation for the position or scholarship they are applying for.
How long should a character reference for a student be?
A character reference for a student should be around one page or 300-500 words.
What is the tone of a character reference for a student?
The tone of a character reference for a student should be formal and professional, but also personal and friendly.
Can a character reference for a student be used for multiple applications?
Yes, a character reference for a student can be edited as needed and used for multiple applications.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference for a student can be a challenging task, but with these tips and examples, you can create a letter that highlights the student’s positive qualities and recommends them for the position or scholarship they are applying for. Remember to provide specific examples and a personal recommendation, and encourage the selection committee to consider the student’s application.