Academic Reference Letter

[swank]

From what I understand, most schools ask for an academic letter of reference when you apply for admission (I'm assuming from the university level). The problem is that I'm not on first name basis with most of my professors and what do you do if you've been out of school for a year or two? If anyone could give me advice, I would greatly appreciate it.

[Rach]

From what I understand, most schools ask for an academic letter of reference when you apply for admission (I'm assuming from the university level). The problem is that I'm not on first name basis with most of my professors and what do you do if you've been out of school for a year or two? If anyone could give me advice, I would greatly appreciate it.

I had the same problem in my application since I have been out of school since 2004 for my degree and have only been back in school this last year (on a first name basis). I was under the impression that it was better to have 3 good/great letters without a prof letter, than 2 good ones and one generic letter from a prof. Not sure if I made the right decision in picking 2 employment letters, and one volunteer letter where the person did comment on my ability to learn, etc.

[polythenepam]

meh i used a highschool teacher! as long as you get someone academic i don't think it's a big deal. if they specifically wanted a professor they'd ask for that exactly.

[hastin11]

meh i used a highschool teacher! as long as you get someone academic i don't think it's a big deal. if they specifically wanted a professor they'd ask for that exactly.

Really?!?! Unless it was a very amazing letter, I see that as being dangerous.

[swank]

meh i used a highschool teacher! as long as you get someone academic i don't think it's a big deal. if they specifically wanted a professor they'd ask for that exactly.

Did it get you an interview?



Im wondering because, I have a teacher that has known me from grade 5 and is now a school district administrator. She knows me better than most teachers. Would a letter from a administrator (like a head of English/head superintendent...etc) carry more what than just a teacher? Profs from university know nothing about me really.

[polythenepam]

the way it works at my school is references are really there to make sure you dont get a bad reference. how can you compare students on their reference letters? you specifically pick these people to write you one because you KNOW they'll say something good about you! and yeah i got an interview and got in.

[Wut?]

For 2nd year applicants, it's extremely difficult to find professors to write excellent reference letters.

I used two high school teachers that knew me very well.

As long as the referee is able to write you an excellent reference letter, meaning they can get past the superficial facts of, for example, "Brad is an excellent student who is a top student in his class", then you should be fine.

As always, though, phone the admissions office to confirm if you are in doubt.