Letters of Recommendation

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Hello there, my name is Germaine and I am really excited to help you understand more about your Letters of Recommendation.

To begin, there is no way to express to you how important your Letters of Recommendation are. This vehicle for your college application is a great way Admissions Counselors become more acquainted with who you are, not only as a student, but as a person too.

When you speak to people you ask to write about you, make sure to have them include in-depth aspects about your personality. For example: your high level of motivation toward pursuing your goals, your enthusiasm of working with youth, or your dedicated attitude toward being an effective leader, just to name a few.

You see, when you talk with the people who will write to colleges on your behalf, make sure you request that they share about your nonacademic ability, as well as your academic. Although many colleges do offer “interviews”, make sure to keep in mind that other colleges do not offer interviews (like us at The College of New Jersey), leaving the Letters of Recommendation to be an alternate component for Admissions Counselors to learn more about you from a third party.
When you have come to a point that you want to select the people who will write on your behalf, here are a few suggestions to consider:

• Gather a total of 2-3 Letters of Recommendation!


• As you think about your recommendations, your goal is to think quality, not quantity.
  Ask people who know you! Examples of people who you may choose to write about you are your guidance counselors, teachers, athletic coaches, employers and/or spiritual leaders.


• But be aware that recommendations from family members will not be considered for your admissions decision.


• Thank the people you have chosen!
  

Once you have selected the people who will write your recommendations, and give them the deadline that is needed, make sure not to forget to thank them. Perhaps you can send a small “Thank You” note in the mail, a sincere email of gratitude or even a “Thank You” internet e-card to just show your appreciation of taking the time out to help you pursue your goals.

In conclusion, I hope this segment of our webinar has been helpful. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your Letters of Recommendation, feel free to contact me via email at ghill@tcnj.edu.

Have a Great School Year!

Germaine N. Graves

Germaine N. Graves is currently the Assistant Director of Admissions for On Campus Recruitment. Being a part of The College of New Jersey Admissions department for over eleven years, Germaine has gained valuable experience working with hundreds of students and their families helping them attain their academic endeavors.

Germaine N. Graves graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies and attained her graduate degree from the Philadelphia Biblical University, receiving her Masters of Science in Christian Counseling.