Requesting Letters of Recommendation

Most faculty members are happy to provide letters of recommendation for professional/graduate schools. To help them provide the best letter of recommendation possible, there are several things that you can do.

Provide the evaluator the appropriate forms and any other information from the school/professional program. Should the information include information about your personal qualities, academic performance, research experience, and extracurricular activities? Should the letter be typed on letterhead stationary or written on a standardized form?
Provide the address to which the letter should be sent. Double check that the information provided is complete and accurate.
Indicate the deadline for receipt of the recommendation.
Provide a recent copy of your transcripts and a current copy of your resume if you have one. If a resume is not available, provide the evaluator a list of research experiences, extracurricular activities, etc. that you have participated in.
Give your current phone number and email address so that the evaluator can contact you if questions arise.
When you contact the evaluator, remind him/her in writing of the classes, clubs, or activities in which you have interacted. Mention any unusual events or experiences that you share in common.
Check back with the evaluator as the deadline nears to make sure that the evaluation has been sent.
Provide the evaluator the recommendation well ahead of the deadline.

If you have taken these steps, the evaluator will be able to mention that you are a responsible, organized person.

In September of each year, BSC conducts mock interviews for sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The simulated interviews are led by local health-care professionals, some of whom have served on admission committees. Following the interview, the student is provided both written and verbal feedback on interviewing techniques and suggestions for improvement. BSC strongly encourages you to participate each year in this activity.