Letters of Recommendation

Acquiring letters of recommendation from supervisors and faculty is very important as you proceed through Brown.

Examples of letter writers include faculty members, internship or part time job supervisors, or team coaches. These letters will be key as you pursue research opportunities, fellowships, internships, graduate school and jobs.

When you complete your time with someone who could serve as an effective writer, ask if she or he would mind writing a strong letter of recommendation for you.

Be sure to explain who the readers are likely to be and what skills are valued. In addition, there are a few things to keep in mind about this process:

  • Ask your supervisor or faculty member soon after your experience with her/him, don't wait until you're getting ready to graduate.
  • Make it easy for them to remember you and your skills and contributions. Provide your letter writer with a resume that provides an overall picture of your experiences and achievements. This will make it easier to write a specific letter and leave the reader with the impression that the writer knows you well.
  • If your letter is not geared to a specific opportunity, then just have your writer highlight your achievements.
  • If it is geared to a specific opportunity then make sure your writer knows what is valued by the reader so that she/he can tailor the letter accordingly.
  • Make an effort to establish relationships with faculty members as you make your way through Brown. Strong letters from faculty members are key, especially when applying for graduate programs.
  • Have the letter written in a confidential manner. This simply means that you never see what is written. Confidential letters are weighted more heavily by readers.
  • Do not use family or friends as writers unless they have an unusually high standing within the industry you are pursuing.
  • Many students take advantage of our Dossier Service to house letters and keep them on file for ten or more years.

If you need assistance either identifying possible writers or in the language you would use to ask, email us and a staff member will assist you.