Module 1: Who to ask?

The first step in this process is determining who should write your letters of recommendation. This is a pivotal decision, as it can significantly impact your application’s success. You need recommenders who not only know you well but are also respected by the admissions committee. 

When it comes to dual degree applications, you’ll typically require one to three letters, often from professors, though professional references can be an option. We’ll provide valuable insights on how to select the right recommenders in this module.

• Choose someone who knows you well: This is crucial. Seek out a professor who can speak knowledgeably about your strengths as a student and how they relate to your future in the dual degree program. The more specific examples they can provide, the more persuasive your application becomes. Foster strong connections with your professors and select those who are most familiar with your abilities.
• Ensure their full support: Given the fierce competition in dual degree applications, it’s essential to have recommenders who can write highly supportive letters. If you sense any reservations from them, it might be wise to consider alternative recommenders.
• Consider language fluency: Most recommendations will need to be written in English. Choose professors comfortable with the language or plan for translation to ensure clear communication.
• Think strategically about their subject: Select your recommenders with your program’s content in mind. For instance, if your high school curriculum leans toward scientific subjects, consider approaching a professor from the social sciences department to vouch for your strong interest and knowledge in those areas, as you will be studying them as part of the dual degree. If you’ve faced challenges in any specific subject in the past, consider asking that subject’s professor to highlight your progress and positive attitude.
• Plan B: Always have a backup plan for recommenders in case your initial choices are unable to provide letters. Discuss this with your professors well in advance.

🌟 Tips:

Think of your letters of reference as a way to complement the other materials in your application. You inevitably will not be able to write about every informative experience you have had in high school. As a result, you can strategically request recommendations from mentors or supervisors that will highlight a particular experience or strength not adequately covered elsewhere in your application.

Academic references do not need to be written from teachers who have given you the highest grades. Rather, the best letters of recommendation will be written from teachers who know you best and can provide specific examples about your approach to learning and performance in the classroom. You may very well want to request a letter from a teacher who taught a subject that was difficult for you and you earned a lower grade in comparison to a teacher who gave you a better grade but never interacted outside of class. Although this may seem unintuitive, there is a good reason for it. If you worked very hard at a difficult subject (frequently going to office hours, being attentive in class, diligently completing your homework, etc.), that teacher can testify to your work ethic, resilience, and growth-mindset. Admission officers know that students will struggle with some subjects more than others. What they care about more than your GPA is knowing that you can persist through academic challenges. A letter of recommendation is a great way to demonstrate these positive attributes!