scorpioguy wrote:
Hello
I was planning to apply for the PT programs in Chicago and NYU. One of my past supervisors that I approached for an LOR did not respond to my email.
Since I work in the IT field as a consultant I guess I could approach my clients but they do not know enough to write a good LOR.
Is there any other option?
Scorpioguy,
When it comes to
choosing recommenders, letters from direct supervisors, past or present, are the ideal. Are you sure the past supervisor actually received your email? Since asking anyone to write a reco letter is a big favor, I recommend approaching people in a more personal way than email. Maybe call him/her. Otherwise, consider other supervisors you've worked for and ask them. A letter from a client can work if they interacted with you regularly over a decent length of time and you know they will be enthusiastic.
As for "not knowing enough," you can always educate them, that is, give them a cover memo describing the themes and context of your application and perhaps suggesting some of the examples they could refer to to best illustrate those themes. Finally, if you have an intensive or leadership involvement in a community organization a reco letter from your supervisor there can also be effective. But try to get a work supervisor first.
BTW, I explain the art of getting effective reco letters in chapter 5 of my book.
Good luck!
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09 Mar 2006, 18:25
