How To Write A College Application Letter Of Recommendation

Over the years, I have written letters of recommendation for numerous business associates. However, my favorites to write are for young students who are applying for colleges, scholarships or their first job. These are personal reference letters and I love getting the chance to sit with these young adults and talk about their futures and aspirations. These conversations help me in writing letters that are relevant, meaningful and honest. As a result I have become the first stop for many of my four children’s friends who are in need of a letter of recommendation.

A letter of recommendation should be one of the easiest pieces of correspondence to compose. You are usually asked to author this by someone that you know well either from your business or personal circles. Having direct knowledge about the subject of your letter should make it easy to expound on their character strengths, personal attributes and accomplishments. In spite of this, it may still be an overwhelming prospect for many.

So, how to start… As I just mentioned, get additional information from the person. You may know them personally as they hang out at your house, but find out what their other outside interests and accomplishments have been. Make sure you know the specifics of what is being asked for in the letter. Get a copy of the requisite for the letter. This information is usually on the college or scholarship application instructions. If it is their first job, find out why THEY think they are qualified. Review their resume together for further insights.

The letter itself… The recipient, their title and the address must be on the letter. Also for college admission letters, reference the candidate’s name and social security or admission ID number. If you have a job with official stationary, use it. It adds a more professional touch. In the opening paragraph, confirm why you are writing the letter. For example, you could begin with a sentence like this. I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for "full name" who is applying for acceptance to your university. You want to make sure the recipient knows immediately what this letter is referencing.

The body of the letter.. You should identify how long and in what capacity you have know this person. It can be as simple as a "family friend for 20 years". Don’t be afraid to point out background information about a strong family foundation. Personalizing the letter makes for a more interesting read. Next outline the accomplishments, attributes and interests of the person and relate them back to why these factors make your candidate an outstanding choice. Be specific and give examples. A generalized, vague letter will not help your student.

The conclusion of the letter should be a strong one line reiteration of the candidate’s qualifications. You should also include your personal email and/or phone for any follow up that may be required. While the recipient may never reach out to you, this offer of further contact underscores your commitment to the person’s qualifications.

In the final analysis, the candidate’s resume will have to speak for itself. However, a well written, honest, and "real" letter of recommendation can be that little extra asset that will differentiate your candidate from the pack. So step up and offer to help the students in your life. If you would like to see some sample letters of recommendation I have written over the years, please visit Celebration Ideas Online Sample Letters of Recommendation.