When a student applies for a scholarship, internship, or job, they often need to provide character references. A character reference is a letter or statement that attests to the student’s character, behavior, and abilities. It is a way for the student to demonstrate to potential employers or academic institutions that they have the necessary qualities to succeed. In this article, we will provide you with a character reference template for student that you can use as a guide when writing your own references.
Before we dive into specific examples, it is important to note that these templates are just that – templates. They are meant to be edited and customized to fit the specific needs of the student and the purpose of the reference. You can use these templates as a starting point, but make sure to personalize them and include specific examples that demonstrate the student’s skills and qualities.
Example 1: Scholarship Reference
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Student Name] for your scholarship program. [He/She] has been a student in my [class/program] for the past [semester/year], and I have been consistently impressed with [his/her] hard work, dedication, and positive attitude.
[Student Name] is an excellent [student/athlete/leader], and [he/she] has demonstrated [specific examples of skills/qualities]. [He/She] is also deeply committed to [community service/volunteering/other relevant activities], which is a testament to [his/her] strong character and sense of responsibility.
I believe that [Student Name] has the potential to make a meaningful impact in [his/her] chosen field, and I wholeheartedly recommend [him/her] for your scholarship program. If you have any questions or would like to discuss [his/her] qualifications further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Strong Character Reference
If you are asked to provide a character reference for a student, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Be specific
Avoid vague or general statements about the student. Instead, provide specific examples that demonstrate their skills, character, and achievements.
2. Use concrete language
Avoid abstract or flowery language. Use concrete, straightforward language that is easy to understand and conveys your message clearly.
3. Highlight relevant qualities
Focus on the qualities that are most relevant to the purpose of the reference. For example, if the student is applying for a leadership position, emphasize their leadership skills and experience.
4. Include contact information
Make sure to include your full name, title, and contact information so that the recipient can follow up with you if necessary.
5. Proofread carefully
Before submitting your reference, proofread it carefully to ensure that there are no errors or typos. A well-written, error-free reference can make a positive impression on the reader.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference for a student?
A character reference for a student should include specific examples of the student’s skills, character, and achievements. It should also highlight any relevant experiences or activities that demonstrate the student’s qualifications for the position or opportunity.
How long should a character reference for a student be?
A character reference for a student should be between 40 and 50 sentences long. It should be long enough to provide sufficient detail and examples, but not so long that it becomes overly repetitive or redundant.
What should I do if I don’t know the student very well?
If you don’t know the student very well, it may be best to decline the request for a reference. If you feel comfortable providing a reference despite your limited knowledge of the student, focus on the qualities or experiences that you are familiar with and avoid making assumptions or generalizations.
Should I address the reference to a specific person?
If you have been given a specific contact person, it is best to address the reference directly to that person. If not, you can use a generic salutation such as “To Whom It May Concern.”
Can I use a template for a character reference?
Yes, templates can be a helpful starting point for writing a character reference. However, it is important to customize the template to fit the specific needs of the student and the purpose of the reference.
What if I can’t provide a positive reference for the student?
If you cannot provide a positive reference for the student, it is best to decline the request. Providing a negative or lukewarm reference could harm the student’s chances of success and damage your professional reputation.
Conclusion
A character reference can be a powerful tool for students who are applying for scholarships, internships, or jobs. By providing specific examples of the student’s skills, character, and achievements, you can help them stand out from the competition and demonstrate their potential for success. Use the character reference template for student and the tips provided in this article to write strong, effective references that will help your students achieve their goals.