Choosing Recommenders

[moshei24]

Hi,

I have one that I for sure picked out, and I'm not sure about the second one because I'm not sure how strong his writing skills are.

I have another issue - I haven't started my personal statement yet. I've started thinking of idea of where I want to go with it, but I need to get my recommenders this week already, as it's getting late already.

Should I just get commitments and tell them that I'll give them more information in the coming weeks?

Is choosing recommenders supposed to be this stressful?

Thanks,
Moshe

[Anne Chaconas]

Hey Moshe,

I think you might be making it more stressful than it needs to be. Just take it a step at a time, set deadlines for yourself, and try to meet them. Do the best you can, and don't get too caught up in the slightly delays--the more stressed you are, the more likely you will miss important details or forget do to do tasks. It's more important to keep your head than worry endlessly about the minutia that doesn't go exactly as you planned.

About your recommenders: Go with those with whom you feel the most comfortable. If one of them gives you pause because of their writing skills, then consider finding another. If you can't find another, stick with the one you've already chosen and ask if you can read or help them proof the letter after they have written it. They may say no, but at least you've done everything you could to ease your own mind.

About the personal statement: You don't necessarily need to give your recommenders one before they start on their letters, although it can be very helpful if you do. If you really want them to have it, then speak to them about writing your letters, and let them know that you're in the process of writing your essay and that you will give it to them in a few weeks, so that they can use it as background material while they write their LOR. If they ask whether they should start writing the letter before they get the essay, respectfully request that they wait until they have it, because you'd like them to read it before they begin.

Again, try to relax about this. Yes, LORs and recommenders are important, but so is every other aspect of the application. If you get this stressed out about LORs, it will affect your performance on everything else.

Best of luck!

[moshei24]

Thank you very much, Anne.

[Anne Chaconas]

You're very welcome!