Self-study
Hi everyone, I am feeling a little worried right now because only some of the schools, I am applying to require academic references (I'm Canadian) but i honestly do not have any super strong connections with profs. I am worried a prof will reject my request for a letter of reference as they do not know we well enough even if i did well in their course. Any Advice?
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13 comments
Ask any prof whos class u did well in. Even if they barely/don't rmbr u they will likely write you a reference if you performed well. They may also ask you for an outline on what to write, resume etc. Dont stress about it, its not hard to get references. Just email your professors instead of stressing about rejection. Taking the step towards contacting them will remove that stress.
@MC567 I did that I emailed like 4 of the profs who's class I got an A in thankfully one said yes. However, most said no right away because they don't know me well enough idk why they're so strict. Maybe it's just my university but im not sure
It's totally normal to be honest to feel this way! I emailed one of my professors twice, who really liked my work in their class and they never got back to me. I got my letters because I made a document on what I'm interested in, what sets me apart, and my goals so my recommender can reference this.
Canadian here!! The best advice is to definitely reach out regardless of what you may think. Attach your CV to an email and let them know how their class resonated with you. Also applying to schools this upcoming cycle. Let me know if you wanna connect!!
@Embee_24 sure!
I'm Canadian and wasn't active at all in any of my classes. I'm also applying to law school 2 years after completing my undergrad. I reached out to a professor whose class I enjoyed, and he agreed to write a recommendation letter even though I'm pretty sure he doesn't remember who I am at all. I explained my situation. A lot of professors want you to succeed and won't mind writing a letter because they're sometimes sympathetic to your situation. It doesn't hurt to try!
@LSAT2025 this made me feel way better im gonna send out emails tomorrow
@LSAT2025 I got a reference by doing exactly what you said thank you so much
@FizaHansra no problem and glad you got a reference!
I sent the professors I emailed a "cheat sheet" with the activities I participated in during college, the grades I received in their courses, and my strengths. This made it way easier for them them say yes because it was less work lol. Also, I started emailing my favorite professors who taught classes I enjoyed a few weeks before I asked them, just to gain familiarity. I worked during college and was pretty shy, so I didn't really go to office hours. This worked out well for me, and I hope it does for you, too.
@AutumnDixon thank you
Check out advisors, deans of the department you majored, any profs of recent classes. Send a bunch of requests out, I am sure some will stick. Send your resume, transcript, Personal Statement, optional statement and invite them to check it out
@jjslay thank you