Getting references from professors for employment, graduate studies, and scholarships
Students approaching graduation are usually heading in one of two directions: work or post-graduate studies. They often look to their university professors for reference. This will give you a professor’s eye view of what you need to know while you are a student and when you are asking for references around graduation, and years later.
Professors are usually glad to give a reference to a student. It is part of our jobs to see you achieve your professional destiny. When we have former students in decision making roles, it can expand the pool of alumni speakers for classes, field trip hosts, and potential employers of co-op students and graduates, as well as create consulting, speaking, or research access opportunities for faculty. However students sometimes think that a “reference” is a “recommendation”. It is not. We don’t make a recommendation one way or another, and in fact employers and graduate schools do not want a recommendation. What they want is an accurate and unbiased impression of you from someone in a position to know your work. That is what we will give.
How can I make sure I am going to get a good reference?
You cannot “make sure” but there are many things you can do to improve your chances. Click these links for my suggestions.
- Understand what the purpose of a reference is.
- Understand what a “good” reference is.
- Start early. Make a good impression while you are a student.
- Choose the right professor to ask.
- Ask for references in an appropriate way.
Finally
Allow enough time. If you have a late-arising opportunity, go ahead and ask, but don’t take it for granted that it is possible to get a reference. Solicit a backup or additional reference just in case. The professor may be away at a conference during that time or called out to emergency research field work. In between classes and marking, professors are often preparing their own materials for deadlines such as grant applications and conferences and unlike term paper due dates, there are no extensions for us.
When a reference has been provided (i.e., letter, form, or a phone call that was taken) thank the professor for it. Gifts and the like are not needed, but a thank you note is always appreciated. This creates a good impression of your social skills for future references.
