letters of recommendation

importance of lors

Letters of Recommendation (LORs) can be the deciding factor in getting into a desired program or school.
They should come from someone who is familiar with your scholarly, research, and/or extracurricular achievements and involvement.
LORs, in most cases, should not come from a family members. They should be from professors, managers, research advisors, or important community figures that you have developed a personal relationship with.
Most summer research program applications require at least 2 LORs. Most graduate school and fellowship applications require 2-3 LORs.

Waive your right to view the letters of recommendation.
- This shows you trust the letter without seeing it, and the application reviewers may view the letters as more trustworthy.
Begin establishing connections with your professors, research advisors, coaches, etc., as early as possible.
- Authenticity is key; focus on genuine relationship-building rather than merely seeking favor.
When seeking a recommendation, initiate the request in person and subsequently follow up with a formal email once they've agreed.
Ensure you ask for letters of recommendation at least a month before the deadline to allow your recommender sufficient time for thoughtful composition.
Provide your recommender with essential materials such as your resume, CV, and/or goals, along with details about the specific program/school.
- This ensures a personalized and impactful recommendation tailored to the application.
Express your gratitude to your recommenders. Acknowledge the time and effort they are investing in crafting a letter that could significantly impact your future career aspirations.