Letters of Recommendation

Letters of Recommendation are the second most important documents in your scholarship application packet.  It is critical to start immediately requesting your endorsement letters.  There is a very specific process that you should complete.  Please refer to the following:

1. Start off with a verbal request. "Do you feel comfortable writing a wonderful letter of recommendation on my behalf"?
2. Prepare a scholarship request packet.  You will need:

• Two white envelopes (9 X 12)
• Formal letter requesting a letter of recommendation.  (Sample in the book and/or on my website in the downloads.)
• Copy of the Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Recommendation.  (Sample on my website in the downloads.)
• Completed Scholarship Resume.  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
• Completed Personal Data Form  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
• A copy of your current unofficial transcripts.
• Self address one of the 9 X 12 white envelopes.  Fold the envelope in half and include with all of the above documents.
• Address your other white envelope.
• Deliver or mail the request for a recommendation packet to the professor, counselor or other professional.
• Allow two weeks for a your Letter of Recommendation.
• When you receive your letter, write a thank you note immediately.
• Enclose some small token like a bookmark, post-its or even a candy bar to show your appreciation.
• You may need to do follow up a few times.

Remember that you will need a minimum of three Letters of Recommendation.  You will need to update them every year or two.