How to Obtain Past Letters of Recommendation

Securing strong letters of recommendation (LORs) is crucial for various applications, from graduate school and jobs to scholarships and fellowships. While the process may seem straightforward – simply asking someone who knows you well – it involves significant subtleties and potential pitfalls. This guide delves into the complexities of requesting past letters of recommendation, addressing common scenarios and offering strategies for success. We'll explore the process from the granular details of individual requests to the broader strategic considerations of building a compelling application portfolio.

The Landscape of Recommendation Letters: Old vs. New

The value of a letter of recommendation diminishes over time. A recent letter reflects your most current skills and achievements, carrying significantly more weight than an older one. However, "old" doesn't automatically mean "useless." A letter from several years ago might still be relevant if it highlights achievements or experiences directly applicable to your current goals. The key is context. A letter detailing leadership skills from a previous role could be valuable even years later, especially if supported by more recent evidence of similar abilities. The age of the letter is less important than its relevance to the specific application.

Assessing the Relevance of Older Letters: A Case-by-Case Approach

Context is King: Does the letter's content directly relate to your current aspirations? If the letter describes skills or experiences directly relevant to your application, it's still valuable, regardless of age.
Time Sensitivity: Some applications prioritize recent achievements. If you have newer, stronger evidence of your abilities, older letters might be less impactful.
Updating Older Letters: In some cases, you can contact the recommender to update the letter with your recent accomplishments. This requires a delicate balance – you want to add relevant information without rewriting the letter entirely.
Supplemental Evidence: Even if an older letter is included, supplement it with newer materials, like a resume, portfolio, or personal statement, showcasing your continued growth and development.

The Art of the Request: Strategies for Success

Requesting a letter of recommendation requires tact, planning, and respect for the recommender's time. A poorly executed request can lead to a weak letter or no letter at all. Here's a step-by-step approach:

1. Choosing the Right Recommenders: A Strategic Selection

Don't underestimate the importance of selecting the right individuals. Consider:

Strong Relationships: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths convincingly.
Relevance of Experience: Select recommenders whose experience aligns with your application's focus. A professor who oversaw your research project is a better choice for a graduate school application than a high school teacher, unless the high school experience is particularly relevant.
Diversity of Perspectives: Aim for a mix of recommenders who can offer diverse perspectives on your abilities.
Availability and Willingness: Before making a formal request, gauge their availability and willingness to write a strong letter. A rushed or unenthusiastic letter is worse than no letter at all.

2. The Initial Approach: In-Person or Virtual Connection

A personal conversation is always preferable to a cold email. Schedule a meeting (in person or virtual) to:

Reintroduce Yourself: Remind them of your relationship and shared experiences.
Explain Your Goals: Clearly articulate your goals and why you are applying.
Highlight Relevant Experiences: Direct their attention to specific experiences that demonstrate your strengths.
Request the Letter: Politely request their letter, emphasizing the importance of their input.
Provide Necessary Information: Share the application materials, deadlines, and any specific instructions.

3. The Formal Request: Email Etiquette and Best Practices

Following the initial conversation, send a formal email summarizing your request. Include:

Clear Subject Line: "Request for Letter of Recommendation ౼ [Your Name] ⎯ [Application]"
Professional Salutation: "Dear [Professor/Employer's Name],"
Reiterate Your Goals: Briefly reiterate your goals and the application you're applying for.
Provide All Necessary Information: Include application materials, deadlines, and any specific instructions.
Thank You and Appreciation: Express your sincere gratitude for their time and consideration.
Follow-Up: Send a polite follow-up email a week or two before the deadline to remind them and offer any additional support.

4. Handling Rejection: Grace and Gratitude

If a recommender declines, accept their decision graciously. Thank them for their time and consideration. Their honesty is valuable, and you can move on to find alternative recommenders.

5. Requesting Updates to Older Letters: A Sensitive Approach

If you're using an older letter, contact the recommender to discuss updating it. Be prepared to provide them with recent accomplishments and how they relate to the original letter’s content. This requires careful wording to avoid seeming demanding or disrespectful of their time.

Addressing Specific Scenarios

Requesting Letters from Professors You Haven't Contacted in Years

Start by re-establishing contact. A brief email reminding them of your past interactions and expressing your appreciation for their guidance is a good starting point. Explain your current goals and why their recommendation would be valuable. Be prepared for a potential “no,” but always express gratitude for their consideration.

Requesting Letters from Former Employers

Similar to professors, re-establish contact and clearly explain your goals. Highlight your accomplishments during your time with the company, emphasizing how they align with your current aspirations. A strong resume and cover letter will help reinforce your qualifications.

Requesting Letters from People You Don't Know Well

This is generally not advisable, unless you have a compelling reason, such as a significant collaborative project. If you must, provide detailed information about your accomplishments and how they demonstrate your qualifications. Be prepared for a potential rejection.

Requesting past letters of recommendation requires a well-planned and respectful approach. By strategically selecting recommenders, crafting thoughtful requests, and managing expectations, you can significantly increase your chances of securing strong letters that will support your applications effectively. Remember that the process is about building relationships and demonstrating your commitment to your goals.

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