How to Request a Strong Letter of Recommendation for Your University of Memphis Graduate School Application

Securing a strong letter of recommendation can significantly boost your graduate school application. A compelling letter provides insights into your character, academic abilities, and potential for success, giving admissions committees a well-rounded view of who you are. Here are key steps you can take to request and receive an impactful recommendation.

1. Choose Your Recommenders Wisely
The best letters come from individuals who know you well and can speak to your strengths in a detailed, personal way. Common sources include professors, research advisors, or supervisors from internships or jobs related to your field. When selecting your recommenders, consider the following:

• Relevance: A professor in the discipline you’re applying to is generally more effective than one from an unrelated field. Similarly, an employer who has observed your problem-solving skills can be highly valuable for applications to professional programs.
• Depth of Relationship: A recommender who knows you over a long period or through significant projects can provide more in-depth comments than someone you’ve only worked with briefly.
• Professionalism and Reliability: Make sure the person you ask has a history of writing strong recommendations and can meet application deadlines. Someone who is too busy or unorganized might not deliver what you need.

2. Ask Politely and Professionally 
You must ask for a letter of recommendation. Never give references without asking the person first. Your approach can impact the quality of the letter. Be respectful and professional in your request. Send a polite email or schedule an in-person meeting to ask if they would be comfortable writing a strong letter of recommendation for you. Use language that acknowledges their busy schedule, such as:
“I understand your schedule is demanding, and I would greatly appreciate it if you could write a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application. Your insights from our time together would add significant value to my application.”
If the person hesitates or declines, don’t be discouraged. It’s better to have a recommender who feels confident in supporting your application than one who feels unsure or rushed.

3. Prepare Early
Graduate school applications often have tight deadlines. Request your letters well in advance—ideally, 6-8 weeks before the due date. This gives your recommenders ample time to craft a thoughtful letter and ensures they aren’t rushed.

To make the process easier for your recommender:

• Provide Clear Instructions: Supply the deadline, how the letter should be submitted, and any specific points the program would like the letter to address.
• Offer to Meet: If the person is available, offer to meet with them to discuss your goals, the programs you’re applying to, and any updates on your academic or professional journey since they last interacted with you.

4. Provide Context and Materials
Help your recommender write a more personalized and thorough letter by providing key materials and information. This can include:

• Your Resume or CV: This will give them an overview of your accomplishments and experiences.
• Your Statement of Purpose: Sharing your personal statement allows them to understand your academic and career goals and reflect that alignment in their letter.
• Transcripts and Projects: Highlight courses, research, or projects you worked on with them, especially if you excelled or showed unique initiative.
• Application Requirements: Different programs prioritize different qualities. For example, some programs might want to know about your research potential, while others might focus on leadership or teamwork skills. Share these requirements with your recommender.

5. Send Gentle Reminders
Even the most reliable recommenders might need a gentle nudge as deadlines approach. A week or two before the deadline, send a polite reminder email, reiterating the due date and offering to provide any additional information they might need.

6. Follow Up with Gratitude
Once your letters have been submitted, follow up with a thank-you note or email. Expressing gratitude shows professionalism and maintains positive relationships with your recommenders, which could be useful for future opportunities.
Sample Follow-up Email
“Dear Professor [Name],
I want to sincerely thank you for taking the time to write a letter of recommendation for my graduate school application. Your support means a great deal to me, and I deeply appreciate the thoughtful letter you provided. I will keep you updated on the outcome, and I’m grateful for your continued guidance throughout this process.”

Final Thoughts
A strong letter of recommendation can be a decisive factor in your graduate school application. By choosing the right recommender, preparing thoroughly, and approaching the request with professionalism, you can ensure that your letter highlights your best qualities and enhances your overall application. Keep in mind that this process is a collaboration between you and your recommender—so invest the time to do it right!

Published: December 2024