The one thing I always hated when it came to applying for certain opportunities was the daunting letter of recommendation requirement. This wasn’t really something I was taught how to ask for— or how to prepare to ask for in high school, and I think that’s exactly when we need to learn it. So, in case high school failed to prepare you for this as well, I’ll give you the best advice I can, based on what I’ve learned over the last year.
If you’re new here, hi! I’m Jazmine, and I’ve been documenting my journey to applying to physical therapy school here on my blog as well as on YouTube. One thing I needed in order to complete my application, were those shiny, highly sought after letters. This was such a scary thing for me to acquire because I never really built a rapport with most of my professors and instructors throughout college, and I definitely didn’t keep in touch with my previous work supervisors. So…how’d I get them?
Step 1: Find a professor, supervisor, or colleague you like.
Admittedly, I was not very social in college. I did my work, turned it in, and asked questions on occasion, but that was it. It wasn’t until I was in my Master’s program that I realized I needed to build rapport with at least one professor. So, that’s what I did. There was one professor in particular whom I’d had multiple classes with, so I was familiar with her career, her personality, and work ethic, and felt like she was someone I’d like to turn to for advice or help when I graduated. I recommend you do the same: find someone you could see yourself turning to for help.
Are there any professors (or supervisors, etc.) you have that are/were in a similar career field as the one you’re interested in? Are there any instructors (or supervisors, etc.) with a personality you really enjoy or vibe with? These are the ones you should start with. Once you’ve found some that you’re comfortable or familiar with talking to, you’re ready for step two.
Step 2: Send them a message explaining your goals, and ask if they’d be interested in guiding you or helping you throughout your journey.
I shot an email to a professor I enjoyed, told her about my career interests, and asked if she’d be interested in mentoring me. Thankfully, she said yes! It’s very scary to ask, but it’s necessary. If they kindly decline, that’s okay, you’ll find someone else! (That’s the attitude you should have, even though rejection for sure hurts.)
Step 3: Keep in touch!
This part is the hardest for me because I’m kinda awkward and don’t like small talk, but keep in touch with the person(s) you choose to build a rapport with! That’s the “building rapport” part. If you notice they published a new paper, congratulate them! If they get a promotion, or finish their degree, etc., consider sending them a card! Update them on how you’re doing in your journey; they’re usually really happy to know their former/current students, employees, or colleagues are making progress towards their goals. It doesn’t have to be every week, or even every month, just don’t stay away too long.
Sometimes, it falls in your lap.
During my journey to applying to PT school, I met a few physical therapist who were so kind and generous, that by the time I finished shadowing them, they offered letters of recommendation, job opportunities, and whatever other help I may have needed. You will find that when you show up, are kind and respectful, and are helpful; people will offer you help before you even get the chance to ask!
So, if you’re like me, and you waited a while to start building professional relationships, don’t lose hope! If you’ve been helpful, kind, respectful, etc., chances are, people are more willing to help you than you think.
How to ask for the letter.
Okay, so, when the time does come for you to ask for a letter of recommendation, how do you do it?! Well firstly, you should always ask way ahead of the due date for your letter. I asked my references for the letter two months before the PTCAS application cycle opened, and they told me to remind them within time frames that best fit their schedule.
Secondly, asking is very simple— or at least, it is in theory, I understand how nerve-wracking it actually is, but you got this! Here’s what you say:
“Hello/hey/hi _______,
I’m [whatever you’re doing that requires letters of recommendation] , and I was wondering if you’d be interested in writing one for me? The due date is [some due date at least a month into the future because we want to be courteous of their time]. I can provide my resume/CV if you need it!”
[typical email signature if its an email.]
(if its a text, just end it with the last sentence above, maybe add a smiley face if they’re cool like that.)
When I asked my professor, she was happy to help, and she asked that I send her the courses I took with her and the year I took them in, as well as a copy of my CV. So, that can be something you automatically include in your email to show your professor that you’ve come prepared for that letter!
And if you never built a rapport with anyone, but you need to ask SOMEONE…
I would just add a re-introduction into your ask-email. “I took this class with you in this semester/year, and I enjoyed learning from you and admired your career achievements. I want to [explain your goals], and I’m currently applying for ____. Would you be interested in…” and ask for the letter, yada yada. Adjust it accordingly— if you’re talking to a previous work supervisor, just remind them when you worked for them and where.
Okay. I think that’s the bulk of my tips as far as asking for a letter of recommendation goes, and I hope you found it somewhat helpful or the slightest bit encouraging. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask, and don’t forget, I have other posts related to my PT school journey here on my blog and on my youtube!
