Recommendations & ReferencesInformation for people serving as References and Letter Writers

Employers and education programs seek references from students and are typically seeking 3-5 people they may contact. Students are told that these should be people who know them well enough to speak to their performance as an employee, student, athlete, musician, volunteer, etc.

When asked to be a reference, it is ok to ask for the student to provide you with:

• Their current résumé (or CV)
• What they are applying for, the types of places they are applying, and why they want to pursue this
• The timeframe for applying
• Any employer/program information
• Any directions they have from the program or employer (example: the university may send you a link for you to submit your letter, or an employer may send you a form to your email to fill out)
• Any relevant information that could help your memory of them (example: Request they list out projects or courses done with you and grade they received, if applicable)
• More information about why they are asking you or what they are hoping you could speak to for them

Do know that you can decline being a reference for any student that you do not feel that you know well enough. After agreeing to be a reference or letter writer, be sure to give them the contact information that you would prefer to be contacted at, as a reference/letter writer for the student

Health Professions

Please ask any current pre-health applicants (MD, DO, PA, Dental, Pharmacy, PT, OT and Veterinary) to complete this form to request letters: Gustavus Letter of Recommendation Online System

• Guidelines for writing a letter of evaluation for Medical School Applicants.

Updated 8/1/22 JV