Getting a letter of recommendation can feel like a big deal, especially when you’re still in school or just starting out. It’s like asking someone to vouch for you, to say you’re awesome and worth considering! Knowing how to write the perfect email is a key first step, and that’s what we’ll cover here, focusing on different scenarios and providing a helpful Asking For A Letter Of Recommendation Sample Email for each. This guide will help you understand how to approach different people and tailor your requests to get the best possible results.
Why Letters of Recommendation Matter & How to Ask
Letters of recommendation are super important for things like college applications, scholarships, and even landing your first job or internship. They offer an outside perspective on your skills, character, and potential. They give the people reviewing your application a more complete picture of who you are than just your grades or a resume can. Think of it this way: it’s like having a trusted adult in your corner, singing your praises to help you get ahead.
Asking for a letter might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! The key is being polite, organized, and making it easy for the person to write the letter. Remember to give them enough time and provide all the necessary information. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Choose wisely: Pick people who know you well and can speak positively about your abilities and work ethic. Teachers, professors, coaches, and supervisors are all good options.
- Be prepared: Have all the necessary information ready, like the deadline, what the letter is for, and any specific things you want them to highlight.
- Show appreciation: Always thank them for their time and effort.
Here’s a quick guide to what information you should include to help the letter writer:
- Your full name and the reason for the letter (e.g., college application, job)
- The deadline for submission
- Details about the position/program
- Your resume or a list of your accomplishments
- Any specific skills or qualities you’d like the writer to focus on
Asking a Teacher for a Letter of Recommendation
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Your College Application/Scholarship Name]
Dear [Teacher’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my application to [College Name] / for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I really enjoyed your class, and I learned a lot about [Subject]. I believe my performance in your class, particularly my [Mention a specific project or achievement], demonstrates my [Mention specific skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, etc.].
To assist you in writing the letter, I have attached my resume and a brief description of my academic goals and extracurricular activities. I am also happy to provide any additional information you might need. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter of recommendation for me by [Date - give the teacher a reasonable deadline to respond].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I am very grateful for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Asking a Professor for a Letter of Recommendation (for Graduate School)
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - Graduate School Application
Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I was a student in your [Course Name] course during the [Semester/Year]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Graduate Program Name] at [University Name]. The application deadline is [Date].
I am applying for the [Program Name] program, and I believe my experiences in your class, particularly the [Project/Assignment Name], prepared me to excel in my pursuit of this academic goal. In your class, I developed a strong interest in [Specific Area of Study], and I believe this aligns well with the research conducted at [University Name].
I have attached my CV and personal statement, which outline my academic and professional background, as well as my aspirations for graduate studies. I am happy to provide any further information that may be helpful.
Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? Please let me know by [Date] if you are able to do so. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Asking a Previous Employer for a Letter of Recommendation
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Job Application/Program Name]
Dear [Former Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I worked as a [Your Job Title] at [Company Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application for [Job Title] at [Company Name] / my application to the [Program Name]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
During my time at [Company Name], I was responsible for [List a few key responsibilities and accomplishments]. I believe my skills in [List relevant skills] would be an asset to this new role / program.
I have attached my resume and a job description of the position I am applying for. Would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf? Please let me know by [Date] if you are able to do so. Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Asking for a Recommendation for an Internship
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - Internship Application
Dear [Professor’s/Teacher’s/Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for an internship application with [Company Name/Organization Name]. I was in your [Course Name] class / worked under your supervision as a [Your Role] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I am applying for an internship in [Field/Area] and believe my experience in [Relevant Experience] has prepared me to excel. My previous role in your course/team has given me the opportunity to practice my skills in [List relevant skills].
I have attached my resume, as well as details about the internship program, including the job description. I am happy to provide any additional information that might be needed. Please let me know if you can write a letter of recommendation on my behalf by [Date]. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Following Up on a Letter of Recommendation Request
Subject: Following Up: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Teacher’s/Professor’s/Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to follow up on my request for a letter of recommendation, which I sent on [Date of Original Email]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
I understand that you are very busy, and I want to reiterate my appreciation for your time. If you are unable to write a letter for me, please let me know at your earliest convenience so I can make alternative arrangements. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Thank you again for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number (Optional)]
Thank You Email After Receiving a Letter of Recommendation
Subject: Thank You - Letter of Recommendation - [Your Name]
Dear [Teacher’s/Professor’s/Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for taking the time to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf. Your support means a great deal to me, and I truly appreciate you helping me with my application to [College/Job/Program Name].
I will keep you updated on the progress of my application. Thank you again for your kindness and support!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
In the final paragraph, remember that there’s a huge advantage in thanking the person who wrote the letter. It’s just good manners!
I hope these examples help you feel more confident when Asking For A Letter Of Recommendation Sample Email. Good luck with your applications!