WRITTEN BY AMY WANG (PEACE ADVISOR)
I’m starting with this topic because 1) acquiring letters depends on the decisions and schedules of others, so the earlier you prepare, the more time you’ll have to adjust your plans if things don’t work out as expected, 2) different schools have different requirements, meaning you’ll need to research all the schools you’re interested in applying to before deciding on which professors you’re going to ask, and 3) this is a very common source of anxiety among applicants.
The (very) general “rule” for letter requirements is two science letters and one non-science letter, which should cover most of your bases. However, many schools I applied to did not have such a requirement; some schools just required a minimum of three letters without specifications as to who they came from. On the other hand, some schools had very specific requirements, such as needing a letter from a professor in your major department and another letter from a science professor in a different department. After finding this information for all the schools you’re considering applying to, you’ll know how many letters you need and have a better idea of who you might want to ask. It’s also important to note that you’ll select which letters to send to each school individually (i.e. you can send letters A, B, and C to School 1 and letters B, D, and E to School 2). Keep in mind that whereas several schools only want letters from your professors, many schools are also interested in letters from your research/volunteering/work/etc. supervisors! Try to choose letters that will offer the fullest picture of who you are, especially in contexts that are important to your application. For example, if your research experience is a major aspect of your application, it would be very helpful to have a letter from your research PI. Just make sure every letter you send adds a different perspective instead of repeating the same things over and over again.
Now that you have an idea of who you’d like to ask for letters, when should you ask? Three months before you need them submitted is generally considered a good time since a) it gives your recommender more than enough time to write the letter but b) it isn’t so early that they forget about it. However, if you’re thinking of asking a professor with whom you’re currently taking a class (as in any semester before the Spring before you apply), I’d recommend asking at the end of the semester so that they have the option of writing the letter when their interactions with you are fresh in their mind. However, some professors prefer to wait until the several months before you apply so that they can include updated information in their letters. Everyone has their own way of doing things, so ask your recommender if there’s anything you can do to make the process as easy for them as possible. At the bare minimum, provide your recommender with your personal statement (or a draft), your transcript, your resume, and any other materials you feel are relevant.
Asking for letters can be a long, sometimes frustrating process. Some people you ask might say no, and that is absolutely okay! Do not take it personally. Do not try to change their minds. You want your letters to be from people who want to help you, because their enthusiasm about you will shine through. The last thing you want is a mediocre or negative letter. If someone can’t write you a letter for whatever reason, thank them for their time and move on. Similarly, if someone agrees to write your letter but seems hesitant, really consider getting a different letter. Mediocre letters are a dime a dozen and will not help your application. Getting the right letters can sometimes take a lot of effort and time on your part, but don’t underestimate the importance of doing so! Several interviewers have brought up things written by my recommenders during my interviews, so they really do read those letters and take what your recommenders say into consideration.
Last but not least, I’d like to leave you with this tidbit: don’t be scared to ask for letters. I know that’s easier said than done, and I’ll admit that I was nervous when I was going through this process, but what I’ve learned is that even at Berkeley, which can often seem impersonal due to its size, there are awesome people out there who want to see you succeed. These people will be happy to support your application. You’ll know who those people are, so don’t be afraid to reach out to them. Be respectful, be thankful, and at the e