What is an LOR?

A Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a document written by a third party, usually a professor or employer, that provides insight into your character, skills, and potential. It's a crucial component of many applications, including those for graduate schools, jobs, and scholarships.

Why are LORs important?

• Third-party validation: LORs provide an objective perspective on your abilities.
• Demonstrate your fit: They can highlight how you align with the program's and institute’sgoals.
• Showcase your qualities: LORs can emphasize your soft skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
• Enhance your application: A strong LOR can make your application stand out from the competition.

According to a recent independent study, LOR’s constitute about 15% of the weightage in your application consideration for Masters programs in the USA. 85% of admissions committees members consider LORs to be an important factor in their decision-making process.

How to choose the right recommender

Selecting the right recommender is crucial. Consider the following factors:

• Relationship: Choose someone who knows you well and can provide specific examples of your work. This is priority #1 when picking a recommender.
• Relevance: The recommender should be able to speak to your qualifications for the program or position.
• Credibility: The recommender should have a strong reputation in their field. However designation is not the most important factor to look at only.

What constitutes a strong LOR

• Be specific: Concrete examples of the applicant's achievements and qualities.
• Highlight unique qualities: Emphasis onthe applicant's strengths that set them apart.
• Tailor the letter: Customizing the LOR to the specific program or position.
• Proofread carefully: Ensure the letter is free of errors and well-written.

FAQs

• How many LORs should I submit? The number of LORs required varies depending on the program or application. But usually 2 to 3 is the norm in most programs.
• Can I write my own LOR? No, LORs should be written by the recommender. However often due to paucity of time especially in case of extremely busy senior professionals, recommenders do give the inputs and ask the applicants to draft aresponse which they can review, edit and submit.
• What should I include in my LOR? A strong LOR should highlight the applicant's academic achievementsor professionalskills, and future learning potentialand growth trajectory.

Conclusion

A strong LOR can significantly enhance your chances of success in your application. By carefully selecting a recommender and providing them with the necessary information, you can ensure that your LOR effectively showcases your qualifications and makes a positive impression on the admissions committee or hiring manager.