If you have asked and I have agreed to write a letter of recommendation for you, please note the following guidelines:

·        Please give me AT LEAST 2-3 weeks notice.  I try to put serious thought into each letter and I will need some time to be able to pen a useful letter.  This is especially true if it is a particularly busy time, such as, advising.

·        Provide me with:

o       the names of the institutions to which you are applying.

o       clear information about what the school needs from me.  Sometimes they want a letter, sometimes they want an on-line form completed.

o       the name of the PROGRAM to which you are applying to.  Is it a Ph.D. in clinical psychology?  a M.S. in counseling? or another type of program?  I usually try to personalize the letter so that it’s clear to the reader for which institution and program you are applying.

o       a copy of your resume.  It will help me write a more complete letter if I know some of the other activities/jobs in which you’ve been involved.

o       addressed, stamped envelopes in which to mail the letters.

·        If they give you a form for me to complete be sure to fill out the portions of the form that are intended for you.  Most importantly, you will be prompted to sign if you want to waive your right to view the letter.  Of course, it’s your choice as to whether or not to sign but I typically recommend that you do so. 

·        Send me an e-mail or stop by about one week before it is due to ensure that there have been no problems with getting the letter written or sent.

·        Good luck with the application process.  Let me know if you have any questions about it.