Thanks to the COM352 students for contributing a bunch of new pages! I'll be moving these pages into the main area of the wiki soon.

From UMassWiki

[edit] general tips

Approach likely people several weeks (preferably months) in advance so that they can adequately plan. It takes time to write a good reference letter; please respect the investment a teacher is willing to make to promote your future.

Introduce yourself, provide your full name, the name of the course(s) and semester(s), and a timeline for the letter.

Additionally, include the names of the schools to which you will apply, the titles and names of the specific person, program, and/or office to which you will apply, and your preferred area of continuing study.

[edit] specific guidelines

Some instructors may remember you clearly and distinctly enough to write a solid recommendation based on memory; I however, need more detail. I am always willing to write a letter on your behalf based upon your performance in this class. I will do my best to describe you as favorably as possible, using evidence to support the praise. The best recommendation letters include very specific information illustrating knowledge of your character, aptitude, and skills.

Therefore, in addition to the basic information requested above, please respond thoughtfully to the following three questions:

1. Please remind me of one or two of your favorite assignments from the class you took with me and describe a few of your key learnings. What has “stuck” with you and made a difference?

2. What do you see as the connection between the material you learned in that course and the program of study you wish to pursue?

3. Considering the entrance requirements for the school(s) of your choice, are there particular aspects that you would like for me to emphasize about you? In other words, what kind of a person/applicant do they seek, and how do you think you fit their profile?

You might imagine the process of asking me for a recommendation letter as a practice step toward writing your admission cover letter and/or entrance essay. The more effort you put into this, the better reference you will receive and the stronger a foundation you will have for crafting your request to the educational program of your dreams.

When you’re ready – giving me plenty of notice! – email

steph at comm dot umass dot edu

and we’ll see what we can do. Best of luck!