Letters of Recommendation can be stressful because they are a part of the application that is out of your hands. You don’t have control over what is said or when they are submitted. Often, it’s a lengthy waiting game once a letter is requested. Don’t let your law school application sit on the back burner while you wait for letters of recommendation.
Here are a few tips to help make sure you receive the best letters of recommendation possible and that they are received in a timely fashion.
Who to Ask
- Consider Relationship Over Title
Someone who has worked closely with you and can speak in depth about your qualities, skills, and abilities will write a much better letter than an acquaintance with an impressive title.
- Anecdotes Versus Adjectives
Choose someone who will be able to provide specific examples about you rather than just list qualities.
- Avoid Family
Family will always say nice things about their own. It’s important to hear from a less biased source.
How to Ask
- Ask for a Favorable Letter
By setting your expectations, it will allow your recommender the opportunity to decline if he/she feels the letter of recommendation won’t be favorable.
- Offer Your Resume and Personal Statement
Your recommender will be better able to discuss the areas that he/she knows are important to you based on what you highlight in your own writing.
- Provide a Specific Timeline
You have a better chance of receiving the letters in a timely fashion if you state when you need/want them submitted.