Letters of Recommendation

Electronic letters of recommendation (eLORs) can be equally as important as grades and experiential preparation. For example, if a student has a very high GPA, lots of experiences, but only average/mediocre letters then there is a “disconnect” and can raise a “red flag” for the admission committee. On the flip side, if a student has average or below average GPA, good solid experiences, then stellar letters can give the student a boost with their overall application. The point is for applicants to not to take the eLORs lightly but consider them just as seriously as coursework grades and experiential preparation.

Strategies for Letters

One strategy is to look through the core competencies/attributes for your future profession and ask each letter writer to address specific competencies/attributes. This avoids overlapping information between letter writings and enables the admissions committee to get a full picture of the applicant. Another is to ask recommenders based on category/type: Science Instructor, Employer (supervisor), Professional you shadowed extensively, etc. Whichever strategy you choose be sure to ask a recommender if they can write a strong letter of recommendation for you BEFORE you enter their information into the system for the email invitation to be sent.

Typically, when recommenders submit their eLOR they are asked to complete an evaluation form to rate the student from “excellent” to “poor” on qualities like reaction to criticism, time management, self-awareness, emotional stability, personal maturity, and social maturity. Therefore, it is important to select recommenders who both support you going to professional school, but who have also seen you behave in a professional and ethical manner. Recommenders are also asked how well they know the applicant: very well, moderately well or minimally well. Make sure you are asking professionals who know you at least moderately well.

Students will have the option of waiving their right to access the evaluation. It is advised that students waive their right to access the evaluation as it is confidential information between the letter writer and the admissions committee.

Committee Letters

UCCS does not provide committee letters. If you are applying to a professional school that asks for a committee letter, you are advised to contact an admissions representative at that institution to inform them of this and ask for advisement.

Follow-Up

Writing a quality letter of recommendation can be time consuming. Show your appreciation to you recommender by sending a thank you via email or a handwritten card.