If you’re applying for a job or graduate school, you’ll likely need letters of recommendation from your professors. These letters are important because they give insight into your academic abilities and personal character. However, asking for a letter of recommendation can be intimidating. This article will provide you with tips and examples for requesting a reference from a professor.
Tips for Requesting a Reference From a Professor
Before you ask for a letter of recommendation, make sure you have a good relationship with the professor. Attend office hours, participate in class discussions, and work hard in their courses. When you feel comfortable asking for a letter of recommendation, follow these steps:
Title: Request for Reference for Graduate School
Dear Professor Smith,
I am currently applying to graduate programs in the field of biology and I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. I enjoyed your course on molecular biology and I believe that your letter would provide great insight into my academic abilities and potential for graduate school. I would be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Title: Request for Reference for Job Application
Dear Professor Johnson,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a position at XYZ company and I am writing to ask if you would be willing to provide a letter of recommendation. As my former professor for the course on business ethics, I believe your letter would provide great insight into my work ethic and character. I would be happy to provide you with my resume and any additional information you may need. Thank you for your time.
Best regards,
John Smith
Title: Request for Reference for Medical School Application
Dear Dr. Lee,
I am currently in the process of applying to medical school and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. I thoroughly enjoyed your course on human anatomy and I believe that your letter would add great value to my application. If you are able to write a letter, please let me know what information you would need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Emily Johnson
Title: Request for Reference for Research Position
Dear Professor Lee,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a research position at ABC lab and I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. Your letter would provide great insight into my research abilities and potential for success in the position. If you are able to write a letter, please let me know what information you would need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Alex Wong
Title: Request for Reference for Law School Application
Dear Professor Davis,
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my law school application. I enjoyed your course on civil rights law and I believe that your letter would provide great insight into my potential for success in law school. If you are able to write a letter, please let me know what information you would need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Samantha Lee
Title: Request for Reference for Teaching Position
Dear Professor Kim,
I hope this email finds you well. I am currently applying for a teaching position and I was wondering if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me. As your former student, I believe that your letter would provide great insight into my teaching abilities and potential for success in the position. If you are able to write a letter, please let me know what information you would need from me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
David Park
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I ask for a letter of recommendation?
You should ask for a letter of recommendation in person or via email. Be polite and explain why you are asking for a letter of recommendation. Provide your professor with any necessary information, such as the application deadline and where to submit the letter.
When should I ask for a letter of recommendation?
You should ask for a letter of recommendation at least a month before the application deadline. This gives your professor enough time to write a thoughtful letter and submit it on time.
What should I include in my request for a letter of recommendation?
You should provide your professor with any necessary information, such as the application deadline and where to submit the letter. You should also explain why you are asking for a letter of recommendation and provide any relevant information about yourself, such as your resume or transcript.
How many letters of recommendation do I need?
The number of letters of recommendation you need depends on the application requirements. Typically, you will need two to three letters of recommendation.
Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?
You should ask for a letter of recommendation from a professor who knows you well and can speak to your academic abilities and personal character.
What should I do if my professor declines to write a letter of recommendation?
If your professor declines to write a letter of recommendation, thank them for their time and ask if they can suggest another person who may be able to write a letter for you.
Conclusion
Requesting a reference from a professor can be nerve-wracking, but following these tips and examples can help make the process smoother. Remember to be polite, provide your professor with any necessary information, and give them enough time to write a thoughtful letter. Good luck with your applications!