Most sponsors want two or three Letters of Recommendation. Request your letters as soon as possible and keep them in sheet protectors in your Scholarship Binder. Expecting someone to produce a quality letter of recommendation for you on short notice isn't reasonable or respectful. Take care of this step early on in the scholarship process.

Who Should You Ask?

Someone who knows you well

• Examples: teacher, employer, community leader, athletic coach, club coordinator, advisor, counselor, religious leader, volunteer coordinator
(Do NOT ask a family member)

It is beneficial to have one academic or professional letter and one personal letter. These letters should provide examples of your strengths, interests, and personality. Keeping the letters focused on the types of scholarships you are looking for is helpful but not necessary.

How Do You Ask?

Recognize that it is a time consuming task to write a letter of recommendation. Give the letter writer at least three weeks notice and let them know you appreciate their efforts. The following are tips that are helpful when asking a potential letter writer:

• Spend time talking with the letter writer about yourself, the scholarships you are applying for, your educational and career goals, your extracurricular activities and why this scholarship would benefit you.
• Let them know when the letter needs to be completed
• Ask if they would be willing to modify the letter occasionally depending upon the scholarship you are applying for.
• Be prepared for a NO. Have a backup list of prospective letter writers.

Follow Up

Check in with your letter writer about one week before the scholarship application needs to be mailed out. After you have received the letter, promptly send a thoughtful thank you note. Your letter writer volunteered his or her time to help you; they deserve your appreciation. Keep them posted regarding your scholarship search and share your successes with them. They will be happy for you and feel rewarded for the time they spent assisting you. Stay in touch with them as you may need them to revise the letter and it is good to update your letters every year.