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Letters of Rec: Your Ticket to Houston or a Waste of Paper?
So, you're eyeing the University of Houston, huh? Good choice! It's got that whole Texas charm without the cowboy boots (unless you're into that kind of thing). But before you dive headfirst into the application pool, let's talk about those pesky letters of recommendation.
Do You Really Need Letters of Rec for UH?
The short answer is: it depends.
- Undergrads: If you're aiming for an undergrad degree, you'll likely need those letters. Think of them as your personal cheerleaders, vouching for your academic prowess and overall awesomeness.
- Grads: Now, this is where things get a little trickier. While some programs might require letters, others might not. It's like playing Russian roulette with your professors' time.
Who Should Write Your Letters?
If you've managed to convince someone to write you a glowing letter, congrats! But who should it be?
- Professors: These folks know your academic chops inside and out. They can spill the tea on your intelligence, work ethic, and ability to survive endless exams.
- Bosses or Supervisors: If you've got some work experience, this is a great option. They can talk about your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and how you handle that one time the coffee machine exploded.
- Extracurricular Leaders: Maybe you're a club president or a volunteer extraordinaire. These people can vouch for your character and commitment to making the world a better place (or at least your campus).
Tips for Getting Stellar Letters
You've picked your letter writers, but now it's time to make sure they don't accidentally write a novel about your fashion sense.
- Give them plenty of time: Don't spring this on them the night before the deadline.
- Provide materials: Share your resume, transcripts, and a draft of your personal statement to give them some context.
- Say thank you: A handwritten note or a small gift can go a long way.
How to...
- How to choose letter writers: Pick people who know you well and can speak to your strengths.
- How to ask for a letter of recommendation: Be polite, specific, and give them plenty of time.
- How to follow up on letters of recommendation: A gentle reminder a week before the deadline is okay.
- How to thank your letter writers: A heartfelt thank-you note or a small gift is always appreciated.
- How to write a strong letter of recommendation for yourself: Just kidding! Don't do that.
