How to Write Your Own Letter of Recommendation | BeMo Academic Consulting

Summary

In this informative video, Nadine Evans, an admissions associate at Academic Consulting, guides viewers on how to write their own letter of recommendation when requested by a professor. She reassures students that this practice is common and reflects trust from their professors. Nadine shares five essential tips: be humble while acknowledging achievements, focus on specific strengths, avoid clichés, show strengths through anecdotes, and ensure impeccable grammar. She also outlines the structure of the letter, emphasizing the importance of a strong introduction, a detailed body with examples, and a conclusive reflection on personal qualities. Finally, she discusses options for students uncomfortable with the task.

Takeaways

• 😀 Writing your own letter of recommendation is a common request and should be viewed positively.
• 📝 It’s an opportunity to highlight your skills, strengths, and accomplishments that the professor may not fully know.
• 💪 Be humble when acknowledging your achievements; provide a balanced view without overstating your abilities.
• 🔍 Focus on specific contributions and avoid trying to cover every strength; two to three key themes are effective.
• 🚫 Avoid clichés like 'hard worker'; instead, provide concrete examples that demonstrate your dedication and abilities.
• 📖 Use anecdotes to show your strengths in action rather than just listing your qualities.
• 🖊️ Ensure your letter is written in a semi-formal, professional style, reflecting how your professor would communicate.
• 🔗 The letter should include an introduction, body paragraphs with examples, and a conclusion that reflects your personal attributes.
• 🤝 If uncomfortable writing the letter, consider discussing your concerns in person and provide materials to assist your professor.
• 📋 If you prefer not to write a full letter, offer bullet points and examples that your professor can reference when writing.

Q & A

What should you do if a professor asks you to write your own letter of recommendation?

View the request as an opportunity to highlight your strengths and accomplishments. It indicates that the professor trusts you and wants to support your application despite being overworked.

What is the first tip for writing your own letter of recommendation?

Be humble but acknowledge your accomplishments. Clearly state your strengths and contributions, and be honest about what makes you a viable candidate for the program.

How can you identify which achievements to include in your letter?

Make a list of qualities and achievements that highlight your candidacy, focusing on those the professor is aware of. Look at the qualities valued in your desired profession as a guideline.

What does it mean to speak to specifics in your letter?

Instead of covering everything, focus on two to three major themes or qualities supported by specific examples, such as significant projects or contributions in the professor's course.

Why should you avoid clichés in your letter?

Clichés like 'hard worker' are vague and don't provide meaningful insights. Instead, use concrete examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.

What is the importance of storytelling in your letter of recommendation?

Using brief anecdotes to demonstrate your strengths is more impactful than listing qualities. It shows the reader your excellence in action.

How should the grammar and style of the letter be handled?

Ensure the letter is written in a semi-formal, professional tone as if you were the professor. Proofread meticulously to maintain high standards of grammar and style.

What is the suggested structure for a letter of recommendation?

The letter should include an introduction that states support for your application, a body with specific examples, and a conclusion that reflects on personal attributes and invites further contact.

What should you do if you're uncomfortable writing your own letter?

You can either decline the request and prepare materials for the professor or propose a middle ground by providing bullet points or notes to guide them.

How can you make the process easier for your professor when writing the letter?

Provide your CV, personal essay, and a summary of key qualities and projects that highlight your strengths, making it easier for the professor to finalize the letter.