Can I get some advice on who to ask for a graduate school LOR?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 May 2020 08:25:52 -0400

I’m looking to apply to graduate school and it says I need two professional LORs. The university gives some examples (professors, mentors, current/immediate previous supervisor) of who I can ask. I’m a little iffy about some of them. I’ve been out of college five years, I don’t think it’s acceptable to ask a professor at this point. My military supervisors/mentors are all in very different fields than my degree program. I’m not opposed to asking them but I don’t want to ask them to make a recommendation when they might not be able to connect my work ethic and performance to the program. Should I reach out to someone working in the field? What are some strategies I can use to get the best possible LOR while asking relevant people to write them?

Response by SPC Nancy Greene made May 22 at 2020 8:37 AM

SPC Nancy Greene — Fri, 22 May 2020 08:37:12 -0400

I think it really depends upon the Masters Degree you plan to pursue...

Response by LTC Kevin B. made May 22 at 2020 9:11 AM

LTC Kevin B. — Fri, 22 May 2020 09:11:35 -0400

What kind of grad program are you targeting?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2020 4:43 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 May 2020 16:43:33 -0400

In my experience, unless you are looking into a program that is top 1%, they really aren't going to make an admission decision based on your letters of rec. As long as your references don't speak negatively about you, it is more of a check the box. Any two references that meet their criteria will do. Be prepared to write the letters of rec yourself for the recommender to review and sign. I've had to write at least 90% of mine myself; it's actually a lot harder than you would think.