Graduate programs are looking for assurance of your strong academic dedication and performance.
Get at least one letter from a major professor in your field.
Look for someone who has a high opinion of you and knows your work well enough to vouch for it.
The recommender should be a respected peer and in a position to evaluate your performance that speaks to the Admissions Committee members.
You may consider other professors who know you well and are willing to give you a strong, positive recommendation.
If you know your advisor for student clubs, academic advisor, your dean or other administrators, these will also be good letter writers.
Get to know your faculty members early in your college career.
Work or volunteer in the department, complete undergraduate research or other activities.
How Do I ask for my Letters of Recommendation?
Ask well in advance of the due date.
Ask cordially and formally; make an appointment to meet with the person you are seeking the letter from and take with you a brief description of your plans and the degree programs to which you’re applying. You may also provide them with a resume and your academic transcripts.
Provide them with all the information they need to return the letter including the full name, title, and complete mailing address. Provide them with pre-stamped and self addressed envelopes.
If the application asks if you agree to waive your rights to view the letter, you should always agree; not doing so may raise suspicion.
Send a thank you note the individuals who have taken the time to write your letters.