Can you do this when asking for a letter of recommendation?

Question

When asking a professor to write you a letter of recommendation for Graduate school, is it appropriate to give them a listing (in writing) of things you felt you learned/accomplished in their class? For example, writing a literature review, exposure to doing oral presentations, etc?
I want to give them this list with a copy of all the papers I submitted to them, and hopefully they'll incorporate the things I mentioned in this "list" in my letter.
What do you think?

Answer 1

What a fantastic idea!
Don't hesitate to do it.

There are a number of things I ask from students who would like a letter of rec, including a resume that includes their accomplishments *outside* of my class, and a copy of the personal statement they're submitting to each school.

It would be kind of gauche for me to ask for something like you've described, but what a nice thing it would be to receive it!

Nice thinking.

Answer 2

Ask your professors directly.

Talk to the professors you would like to write your recommendation and ask them if they would be willing to write one first. They have the right to accept and decline. It's always better to ask out of politness (brownie points!) even though you know they'll say yes. If they say yes then ask them if you need to provide them with anying, i.e. a letter, similar to what you'd like for them to read, or past works. If they say no then ask if it's okay to submit some anyone. If they say no again then don't provide them with anything--it's not worth it to irritate them if you want a recommendation.

I've had some professors who've told me it wasn't necessary while one or two asked for a short 'essay' on what I'd like to be incorporated into the recommendation .

If, ultimately, you will be giving them what you mentioned, just make sure it's an adequate amount. Don't bombard them with an excruciatingly long list or several 15-page papers. A short 1- to 2-page list should be appropriate, and submit writing samples of your best papers instead of the entire papers with a note attached saying if they'd like to read the entire paper then you'd be more than happy to provide it.

Once you do get your letter of recommendation don't forget to thank them!

Answer 3

First off you need to request the letter of recommendation in person, when you do that you can phrase it "Would you be so kind as to write a letter of recommendation for me? I felt that I have learned so much from you and that you have the best idea of all I accomplished . They KNOW what they teach, They KNOW what you did. giving them a laundry list will seem rude and resubmitting your papers over the top.

Answer 4

Too much--they're very busy.

Write a one paragraph cover letter thanking them for a letter of recommendation. Refer to one highlight in your work for them and how you enjoyed their class--how it benefited you.

Having an honest and brief letter of recommendation already typed for them to sign will expedite the process. Remember not to overemphasize qualities or successes that you did not have. The professor will recall the truth.

These are the most effective ways and I have used them with professors and employers both.

Answer 5

yes it is very appropriate and can be very helpful for teachers. I have written several this year some with some without. THe kids with the 'brag sheet' got a lot better recommendation than the others because I was able to highlight their good points.

Answer 6

Maybe not from their class in particualr, but most people who write recommendations for me ask for a current resume. You might want to do that instead.

Answer 7

Don't try to "guide" him. If he wants a resume or instruction from you, he'll ask. Otherwise, it's a bit insulting.