Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of Recommendation are the second most important documents in your scholarship application packet.  It is critical to start immediately requesting your endorsement letters.  There is a very specific process that you should complete.  Please refer to the following:

  1. Start off with a verbal request. "Do you feel comfortable writing a wonderful letter of recommendation on my behalf"?
  2. Prepare a scholarship request packet.  You will need:
  • Two white envelopes (9 X 12)
  • Formal letter requesting a letter of recommendation.  (Sample in the book and/or on my website in the downloads.)
  • Copy of the Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Recommendation.  (Sample on my website in the downloads.)
  • Completed Scholarship Resume.  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
  • Completed Personal Data Form  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
  • A copy of your current unofficial transcripts.
  • Self address one of the 9 X 12 white envelopes.  Fold the envelope in half and include with all of the above documents.
  • Address your other white envelope.
  • Deliver or mail the request for a recommendation packet to the professor, counselor or other professional.
  • Allow two weeks for a your Letter of Recommendation.
  • When you receive your letter, write a thank you note immediately.
  • Enclose some small token like a bookmark, post-its or even a candy bar to show your appreciation.
  • You may need to do follow up a few times.
Remember that you will need a minimum of three Letters of Recommendation.  You will need to update them every year or two.

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