Tis the season that recommendation letter-writing is beginning to wind down, just as the school year is beginning to wind up. I think this week is the first time in about 3 months that I haven't had somebody's letter request sitting on my to-do list. I'll admit it: I am relieved.
It's not that it's a job I don't like, it's just that it is a job. Crafting a letter that is honest, professional, and that gets the message right can be a difficult thing to do.
As I look out over the sea of expectant faces in my new classes I know that this coming year will bring more requests. I'm already watching for the qualities of character I hope to be able to write about later. Those would include things like flexibility, honesty, drive, and the abilities to both listen carefully and act decisively.
Students out there who know or think they know that they'll be seeking admission to medical or other professional health programs, studentdoctor.net has an article that does a good job of explaining how to think about and manage your presentation of yourself in your personal essay. Much of what is here is also relevant to how you might want to be perceived for letters of recommendation. This might be valuable reading.
No comments:
Post a Comment