A “Sample Letter To Request Recommendation From Professor” is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a pre-written letter template. You can use it to ask a professor to write you a recommendation. Students often need these letters. They need them for jobs, internships, or graduate school applications.
Writing a letter to a professor can be daunting. You might not know where to start. That’s where we come in. We’ll share templates, examples, and samples. These will help you craft the perfect request.
This article provides you with those samples. We aim to simplify the process. We want to make writing your request easy. Think of us as your recommendation request gurus!
Sample Letter To Request Recommendation From Professor
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Professor’s Name]
[Professor’s Title]
[Department Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this letter finds you well.
My name is [Your Name] and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during the [Semester/Year]. I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation from you in support of my application to [Program Name/Job Title] at [Institution/Company Name].
As you may recall, I particularly enjoyed [Specific aspect of the course or project you excelled in]. I believe my performance in [Specific assignment or project] demonstrates my [Specific skills or qualities].
The deadline for submitting the letter is [Date]. To assist you, I have attached my resume and a brief statement outlining my goals and the requirements of the [Program/Job]. I am also happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter on my behalf.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Sample Letter To Request Recommendation From Professor
Subject Line: Capture Attention Immediately
- Be succinct. Professors are inundated with emails. Clarity is paramount.
- Include your name. For instance, “Recommendation Request – [Your Name]”.
- Specify the application type. Add context: “Recommendation Request for [Specific Program/Job]”.
Salutation: Foster a Respectful Ambiance
- Address the professor formally. Use “Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name]”.
- Avoid using first names unless explicitly invited to do so. Maintaining professional decorum is essential.
- Reiterate your connection, if necessary. Example: “Dear Professor Smith (from [Course Name] in [Semester/Year])”.
Introduction: Establish Rapport and Recall
- Refresh the professor’s memory. Mention the specific course you took with them and the semester.
- State your purpose directly. Express your intent to apply for a specific opportunity.
- Articulate why you are soliciting their recommendation. Briefly explain why you believe they are a suitable recommender.
Body Paragraphs: Elaborate on Your Candidacy
- Provide context about the program/job. Succinctly describe the opportunity and why it aligns with your aspirations.
- Highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Emphasize accomplishments from their class or other projects.
- Offer supporting documents. Mention you’ve attached your resume, transcript, or a personal statement for their perusal.
- Subtly remind them of your positive attributes. Reference specific instances where you demonstrated aptitude in their class.
Essential Information: Facilitate the Recommendation Process
- Specify deadlines. Clearly state the deadline for submitting the recommendation letter.
- Explain the submission process. Provide instructions on how to submit the letter (e.g., online portal, email).
- Furnish any required forms or links. Ensure the professor has everything needed to fulfill the request efficiently.
Closing: Express Gratitude and Availability
- Reiterate your appreciation. Express sincere gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Offer to provide further details. Indicate your willingness to answer any questions they may have.
- Provide your contact information. Include your phone number and email address for easy communication.
Valediction: End on a Professional Note
- Use a formal closing. “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” are appropriate choices.
- Type your full name. Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations.
- Proofread meticulously. Ensure the letter is free of grammatical errors or typos before sending.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a Recommendation Letter from a Professor
Requesting a recommendation letter from a professor is a common practice for students pursuing academic or professional opportunities. Understanding the proper etiquette and process can significantly increase your chances of receiving a strong and impactful letter.
When is the best time to ask a professor for a recommendation letter?
Ideally, request the letter at least one month before the application deadline. This provides the professor sufficient time to write a thoughtful and comprehensive recommendation.
What information should I provide to the professor?
Provide the professor with your resume or CV, a personal statement (if applicable), details about the opportunity you’re applying for, and any specific instructions for submitting the letter.
How should I approach a professor I haven’t seen in a while?
Start by briefly reminding the professor of your time in their class and any significant projects or interactions you had. Reiterate your interest in the specific opportunity and why you believe they can provide a valuable recommendation.
What if a professor declines my request?
Respectfully acknowledge their decision. It’s possible they are too busy or don’t feel they know you well enough to write a strong letter. Thank them for their time and consider asking another professor.
How should I follow up after making the request?
Send a polite reminder a week before the deadline, if you haven’t heard back. Express your gratitude for their time and effort in supporting your application.
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