Letter of Recommendation*

Objective: Students will consider what they expect their mentor(s) to say in a letter of recommendation about them and reflect on whether their behavior and performance support these expectations.

One of the benefits of doing research is that you will get to know your mentor well, and he or she will be able to write a detailed letter of recommendation on your behalf when you move to the next stage of your academic or professional career. As you begin the research experience, reflect on the expectations and goals you established with your mentor. Consider what you would like him or her to be able to say about you at the end of the research experience and complete this draft letter of recommendation.

Date

Dear Selection Committee,

I am writing this letter in support of [your name], who is applying for [job of your dreams]. I believe [your name] is an excellent candidate for this position because

1.

2.

3.

Over the past few years, [your name] has worked in my research group in the Department of [your department] at the [your campus]. [Your name] is very skilled in the following areas:

1.

2.

3.

In short, I believe that [your name] would be a wonderful asset to your department/program/unit. I strongly recommend him/her.

Sincerely,

[Your mentor]

Do the things outlined in this letter of recommendation align with the goals and expectations you established with your mentor? If not, how can you adjust your goals and expectations so that you will have the opportunity to engage in activities that allow your mentor to comment on these things?