References

Typically, references get called after you've had an interview. So, if/when you get an interview and hear about a reference check, 1) let me know so I can congratulate you!, and 2) send me a quick paragraph with some info that will help me provide the best possible reference when I get that call or email. Specifically:

  1. describe the job, internship, or fellowship for which you're applying,
  2. explain why you think you're a good fit for this position, and
  3. articulate how the work you've done as a Writing Mentor and/or in class with me has prepared you for (or demonstrates that you have the skills for) the work you'd be doing in this position.

Letters of Recommendation

Writing a persuasive recommendation letter takes time. Especially during busy times of the academic year, it's important to ask for letters well in advance — ideally at least four weeks before the due date. If you give me less time, or if you don't give me the written information outlined below, I may still be able to write a letter, but it is likely to be a more generic letter.

To write an effective letter of recommendation, I will need the following materials at least three weeks before it's due:

  • a list of the application due dates;
  • information about the programs to which you're applying — this can be as simple as a link to each program's website;
  • a copy of the latest draft of your personal statement or statement of purpose, or, if neither of those is required for the application, a brief paragraph explaining why you're applying;
  • a copy of your résumé, CV, or equivalent list of accomplishments and awards.

I will also need your written responses to these prompts:

  1. Tell me how what you learned in class with me relates to the program or position for which I'm recommending you. How would you apply what you've learned?
  2. Remind me of particular contributions to class discussion, paper-writing breakthroughs, journal entries, or outside-of-class conversations we've had that you think show something important about you or your development as a writer and thinker. If possible, give me a copy (paper or electronic) of the best work you did in our class together—whether a formal paper, a journal entry, or something else—so that I can refer to it in my recommendation.
  3. If you've worked as a Writing Mentor, tell me what you've learned from that work and how it's relevant to the program or position to which you're applying. Tell me a brief story about your experience: a memorable session; something a writer or professor said that stuck with you; an incident that influenced you as a writer, student, or (future) teacher; or an insight that you'll take with you into the work you're applying to do.
  4. Tell me what other aspects of yourself as a writer, tutor, scholar, or person you think I'm in a good position to discuss.
  5. Tell me how this recommendation letter fits in with the other recommendations you've asked for. Do you want me to emphasize your writing? your research? your participation in discussion? your work as a Writing Mentor? your development over time? your leadership skills? some combination of these things? I will testify to as many aspects of you and your work as I can, but think about what you most want me to discuss. For example: if you're applying for a PhD program, a professor who advised your MAP research or Mellon Mays project can probably say more than I can about your research, and a professor with whom you took three classes in your major can certainly say more than I can about your preparation in the field, but I might be in a good position to describe your approach to writing and revision and/or your potential as a graduate teaching assistant.

Your responses will help me write a specific and persuasive recommendation. I keep your answers on file for future reference, so if you need me to write another letter in the future we can simply update and add to this information as needed.