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University of North Florida
Career Services
Founders Hall Building 2, Room 2086
620-2955
Writing Letters of Recommendation
Written and Compiled by Rick Roberts, Director Career Services, Revised 2006
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Before You Begin:
• When the student asks for a letter, understand what is being asked of you
• What is the purpose of the letter?
• What does the student expect from you?
• Tell the student honestly how you feel about writing the letter for him/her
• You are under no obligation to write a letter for anyone. If you feel uncomfortable honoring the request,
please say so.
• If you are comfortable writing the letter, ask the student for a copy of:
-his/her resume
-a transcript
-a statement of purpose
-an outline or list of accomplishments
-contacts you have had with the students (courses, projects, advising, etc)
Writing the Letter:
• Explain your relationship with the candidate
• Make clear how well you know the person and under what circumstances. Include dates.
• Know the candidate's career goals and objectives
• Tailor the letter of reference to a specific position or career field based on the candidate's goals
• You may wish to set an appointment to discuss the letter
• You might want to cover specific characteristics of the candidate including:
-scholarship
-oral and written communication
-motivation
-leadership
-sense of responsibility
-ability to plan and organize
-creativity
-research skills
-tact and ability to relate to others
• Give specific illustrations and examples rather than vague generalities
Some More Tips:
• Avoid sexist or racist remarks or physical descriptions. ("Sara is a pretty, sweet young lady" -is not
appropriate)
• Keep your letter brief. Experts agree that a page to a page and a half i