If you’re a student who’s applying to a graduate program, scholarship, or job, you may need a reference letter from a professor. A reference letter from a professor is a document that discusses a student’s abilities, experiences, and achievements. The letter can help the student stand out from other applicants. In this article, we will provide tips and examples on how to write a reference letter from a professor.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter From Professor Example
If you’re asked to write a reference letter from a professor, here are some tips to help you create a compelling letter:
- When writing a reference letter from a professor, make sure to start with a title that clearly indicates the purpose of the letter.
- Begin with an introduction that explains your relationship with the student and how you know them.
- Provide an explanation of the student’s abilities, experiences, and achievements.
- Include specific examples of the student’s work or accomplishments.
- Use a professional tone and avoid using informal language.
- End the letter with a complimentary close that expresses your confidence in the student.
- Provide your contact information in case the recipient needs to follow up with you.
- Encourage the student to ask for feedback on the letter and make revisions as needed.
Examples of Reference Letter From Professor Example
Graduate School Application
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend Jane Doe for admission to your graduate program in English. Jane was a student in my English 101 class and demonstrated a strong aptitude for writing and critical analysis. Her writing assignments were consistently thoughtful, well-researched, and well-written.
Jane is also a dedicated student who regularly participated in class discussions and consistently earned high marks on exams. She is a curious and engaged learner who is always eager to learn more about literature and writing.
I am confident that Jane will make a valuable contribution to your graduate program and I strongly recommend her for admission. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
Professor John Smith
Job Application
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to recommend John Smith for the position of Marketing Manager at your company. John was a student in my Marketing 201 class and demonstrated a strong understanding of marketing principles and strategies.
John also has experience working in the marketing industry and has demonstrated a strong ability to develop and execute successful marketing campaigns. His innovative ideas and attention to detail have helped him achieve impressive results in his previous roles.
I am confident that John will be an asset to your company and I strongly recommend him for the position of Marketing Manager. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Jane Doe
Scholarship
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Sarah Johnson for your scholarship program. Sarah was a student in my Biology 101 class and demonstrated a strong aptitude for scientific research and analysis.
Sarah has also conducted research in my lab and has demonstrated a strong ability to design and execute experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions. Her research has been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal and has received recognition from the scientific community.
I am confident that Sarah will make a valuable contribution to your scholarship program and I strongly recommend her for the scholarship. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Tom Davis
Volunteer Program
Dear Volunteer Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend Emily Lee for your volunteer program. Emily was a student in my Sociology 101 class and demonstrated a strong commitment to social justice and community service.
Emily has also volunteered at a local homeless shelter and has demonstrated a strong ability to work with vulnerable populations with compassion, empathy, and professionalism.
I am confident that Emily will be an asset to your volunteer program and I strongly recommend her for the position. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Lisa Chen
Internship Program
Dear Internship Coordinator,
I am writing to recommend Michael Johnson for your internship program. Michael was a student in my Computer Science 201 class and demonstrated a strong aptitude for software development and programming languages.
Michael has also developed a mobile app that has received positive reviews from users and has been featured in tech blogs and online magazines.
I am confident that Michael will be an asset to your internship program and I strongly recommend him for the position. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
Professor David Kim
Graduate Fellowship
Dear Fellowship Committee,
I am writing to recommend Elizabeth Brown for your graduate fellowship program. Elizabeth was a student in my History 101 class and demonstrated a strong aptitude for historical research and analysis.
Elizabeth has also conducted research in archives and museums and has demonstrated a strong ability to analyze primary sources, develop historical narratives, and present her findings in compelling ways.
I am confident that Elizabeth will make a valuable contribution to your graduate fellowship program and I strongly recommend her for the fellowship. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Mark Williams
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a reference letter from a professor?
A reference letter from a professor should include the student’s abilities, experiences, and achievements. You should provide specific examples of the student’s work or accomplishments and use a professional tone. It’s also important to include your contact information in case the recipient needs to follow up with you.
How long should a reference letter from a professor be?
A reference letter from a professor should be one page long. You should provide enough detail to give the recipient a clear picture of the student’s abilities, experiences, and achievements, but you should also be concise and to the point.
How can I make my reference letter from a professor stand out?
You can make your reference letter from a professor stand out by providing specific examples of the student’s work or accomplishments and using a professional tone. You should also highlight any unique or impressive achievements the student has made.
Can I use a reference letter from a professor for multiple applications?
Yes, you can use a reference letter from a professor for multiple applications, as long as the purpose of the letter is relevant to the application. However, it’s important to make sure that the letter is tailored to the specific application and addresses the requirements of the position or program.
What should I do if I don’t have enough information to write a reference letter from a professor?
If you don’t have enough information to write a reference letter from a professor, you should politely decline the request. Alternatively, you can ask the student to provide you with more information about their experiences and achievements to help you write a more detailed letter.
How can I avoid bias when writing a reference letter from a professor?
You can avoid bias when writing a reference letter from a professor by focusing on the student’s abilities, experiences, and achievements, rather than personal characteristics or demographics. You should also avoid using language that could be interpreted as discriminatory or prejudiced.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter from a professor can be a valuable opportunity to help a student achieve their academic and professional goals. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a compelling and effective letter that highlights the student’s strengths and accomplishments. Remember to be concise, professional, and focused on the student’s abilities and experiences. Good luck!