Letters of Recommendation
As a lawyer, I’ve learned that strong recommendations can make or break a case—and the same applies to university applications. A compelling letter of recommendation adds credibility to your profile, offering admissions officers an external perspective on your abilities, character, and potential. But not all recommendations carry equal weight. To secure letters that strengthen your application, follow these three key steps:
1. Choose the Right References
Your recommenders should know you well and speak to qualities relevant to your field of study. Consider:
Academic mentors (e.g., teachers in core subjects related to your major) who can highlight your intellectual curiosity and work ethic;
Professional supervisors (e.g., internship managers, research advisors) who can attest to your skills and real-world contributions. For this reason, it is a good idea to start thinking about getting work experience ahead of applying to university;
Avoid generic choices (e.g., family friends, vague acquaintances) which may not be well regarded by admissions committees.
2. Make a Thoughtful Request
A rushed or impersonal ask can lead to a lukewarm letter. Instead:
Ask early (at least 4–6 weeks before deadlines) to give recommenders ample time;
Provide context—share your resume, academic goals, and key anecdotes they might reference;
Think before you ask—identify what skills you would like the referrer to highlight and phrase your request accordingly (e.g., “Would you be willing to write me a strong reference letter highlighting my problem-solving skills and suitability for the legal profession?”).
3. Guide Their Writing
Recommenders appreciate direction. Help them craft a detailed, impactful letter by:
Sharing bullet points (e.g., a specific project you aced or challenges you overcame);
Mentioning the program’s values (e.g., internship opportunities, research for STEM);
Offering to draft a template—some busy recommenders may welcome a starting point which they can then edit.
Like a well-constructed legal argument, a strong recommendation relies on evidence, clarity, and trust. By selecting the right advocates, making a professional request, and equipping them with relevant insights, you’ll ensure your letters reinforce—rather than undermine—your application.
Need help strategizing your university application? Reach out for personalized advice. Good luck!
Who should you ask to write your reference letter?
推荐信的制胜之道
作为一名律师，我深知有力的推荐信能左右案件成败——大学申请亦是如此。一封出色的推荐信能为你的个人陈述增添公信力，让招生官通过第三方视角了解你的能力、品格与潜力。但并非所有推荐信都有同等分量。要想获得能为申请加分的推荐信，请遵循以下三个关键步骤：
1. 选对推荐人
推荐人应当熟悉你，并能评价与你申请领域相关的特质。优先考虑：
学术导师（如与专业相关的核心科目教师），他们能突出你的求知欲和学术态度；
职场导师（如实习主管、科研指导人），他们可证明你的实践能力和实际贡献（这正是建议你在申请前积累工作经验的原因）；
避免选择泛泛之交（如家族友人、点头之交），这类推荐信往往难以得到招生委员会的重视。
2. 提出有温度的请求
仓促或模板化的邀请容易导致推荐信流于平淡。你应该：
提前沟通（至少在截止日期前4-6周），给予充分准备时间；
提供背景资料（如简历、学术目标及可供参考的具体事例）；
明确表达需求（例如：“您能否在推荐信中强调我的问题解决能力及对法律专业的适配性？”）。
3. 提供写作指引
推荐人通常需要方向。你可以通过以下方式帮助他们写出详实有力的内容：
列出要点（如你主导的项目或克服的挑战）；
强调项目看重的特质（如实习经历、STEM领域的研究能力）；
主动提供初稿——忙碌的推荐人可能会感谢你提供的可修改模板。
如同精心构建的法律论证，优秀的推荐信需要证据、清晰度与信任。通过选择合适的推荐人、专业地提出请求并为他们提供关键素材，你的推荐信将成为申请材料的助力而非短板。
如需定制化大学申请策略指导，欢迎联系咨询。祝你好运！