ERE students often need letters of recommendation for internships, Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) and for finding their first job after graduation.

It is reasonable to ask ERE faculty for letters of recommendation. You first want to ask a faculty member if he or she would write a favorable letter for you. In fact, it is reasonable to ask what he or she might write in the letter.

When to Ask?

Please ask as soon as you know you need a letter.

What My Letter Will Address

In the letter, the faculty member will likely address the following:

• How long they have known you.
• In what capacity they have known you.
• How you performed and how your work compared with others.
• How well you work with others and your leadership potential.
• Your work ethic, your ability to work independently and when supervised.
• Anything else that you suggest that seems reasonable.

To Do List

If you would like a professor to write a letter for you, they will need you to provide them the following information and to be politely persistent until you know the letter has been sent.

Required information

• All requred forms and/or links
• Information about the reader of the letter
  • Name and title of person reading the letter
  • Name and title of program you are applying to
  • Address
  • Related website
  • Due Date - very important.
• Information about what is expected to be addressed in the letter
  • You can summarize what you hope they will address.
• Information about you
  • How do you know each other? Remind them of how you know each other by listing all classes, clubs or projects where you have worked together. Be sure to provide grades as well.
  • List any other pertinant information such as extra curricular activities and your overall GPA.
  • Provide them a resume and/or a statement of purpose if you have one
  • Let them know why you want this particular position so they can address that issue in their letter.

Check letter has been sent

It is helpful if you are politely persistent with periodic reminders until you hear from the faculty member that the letter has been sent.

Follow up with who you asked

Please let the professor know how it goes with your applications. If you are not successful, the faculty member may be able to help you think about how to make a stronger application next time. If you are successful, it is always gratifying to hear about student successes.

Good luck!