How do I ask someone for a letter of recommendation?

Question

Hi!

I'm applying to graduate school (pathology) and I need to ask for a LOR. The only problem is that I have had to transfer three times because of my dad's work. I was at one school for a semester, and the current one that I'm in is a second semester. I was at my first school for two years. I wanted to ask my adviser from my first school because she was my professor for one class as well.

I thought it would be better to call her than to e-mail her, but I don't know what to say. I'm really nervous. Also, since I haven't established a relationship with a professor at my other two schools because I have only been there for a short time, I'm worried about who I could ask. Would an adviser of an organization be a good one? What about my current adviser?

I guess my main question is, how do I ask someone for a letter of recommendation?

Thanks!

Answer 1

If you transfered schools, you must have asked for letters to get into those schools. You could approach those people. They even have a letter that they have already written that they can adapt for this purpose.

As for your original advisor -- I would send an Email rather than call. Attach information about yourself that will help her write the letter. In particular, give her information about courses you have taken, grades you got, outside interests, why you want to go to grad school and what you want to do.

It would be a good idea to get a letter from at least one professor you had. Choose your best course. Even if you didn't get to know that professor that well -- but did well in the class, you can provide enough information for him to write a letter.

Answer 2

I think your right to ask your previous adviser. The time elapsed between schools wasn't very long and she has a longer history with you. Just give her a call and explain your situation and ask her if she would mind writing a LOR for you. It's something she is commonly asked for and writes so you shouldn't feel awkward. She should understand the situation and your desire to have someone who actually has some knowledge of who you are write this for you. I think your just over thinking the situation a bit, it's not so unusual or inappropriate at all. I agree with everyones assessment that you should e-mail her. She's a very busy person and speaking on the phone can be time consuming and difficult. Whereas checking her email is a common task generally quickly accomplished and she can then mail you back at her convenience.

Answer 3

You really do not have to worry too much about this. As professors we consider writing LORs as part of the job. Personally, I prefer to be contacted by e-mail on this unless it is a current student I know well. Start off by introducing yourself, reminding the person who you are ("I was a student in your Biology 213 class in 2006") and state what you want, what your situation is and why you are asking this particular person for a letter. Keep it short and spell it all correctly and this will increase your chances.
Good luck.

Answer 4

call her and reintroduce yourself and explain to her that your applying to grad school and need a LOR. Usually professors are good at providing letters...This goes with any person you want to ask to give you a LOR just be professional about it and also polite