I need letters of recommendation from two professors. How do I go about obtaining them?

Question

What is the best way to approach a professor about having him write me a recommendation?

Answer 1

First, be sure to find professors who actually know you. It's unwise to choose the professor in a large lecture class where you may get lost in the crowd. Instead, choose ones you have in small seminar or discussion-type courses. Also, of course, choose a professor in whose course you are doing (or have done) well.

You can either go to the professor's office during normal office hours or speak with him or her immediately after class. Just explain that you need a recommendation and the prupose of it and ask if the professor would be willing to write one. If there are any forms or instructions, be sure to give them to the professor as well. Finally provide the deadline and give a stamped envelope in which the recommendation can be mailed.

Most professors will say yes without any problem, assuming that you are doing well in their classes. This is a standard part of the job, and they are used to doing it. You may, however, wish to visit with them again close to the deadline to make sure they have completed the recommendations and sent them off.