cs77 wrote:
Hi Linda,
I am in the process of selecting who I will ask for recommendations. I am currently working abroad for a multi-national in Latin-America. My direct supervisor knows my work well and would be ideal. This may seem like a silly question, but my supervisor's command of English is limited, as it is not his native language. While an excellent writer in Spanish, I am concerned that if he would not be able to articulate as freely or comprehensively a recommendation for me versus if he did it in Spanish.
How do business schools' look at recommendations like these and what would you recommend? Should I have him do it in English anyway? A friend recommended that I ask him to do it in Spanish and then have it professionally translated and turn in both copies, but I am not sure of the protocol. Your advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
Good question. Have your supervisor write the letter in Spanish and then get it professionally translated.
BTW, this question was asked at the 2002 Cornell chat. Natlie Grinblatt, head of admissions at Cornell, answered it as follows:
"Your recommender can write the letter in his/her native tongue and then have it translated for us."
I think it's been asked at other chats too, and that's the standard answer and best approach.
Good luck!
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Linda Abraham
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