📝 Letters of Recommendation Guide

Here you’ll find all you need to know about how to obtain a strong and impactful LOR from our program. Whether you’re advancing your academic career or stepping into the professional world, we’re here to support you. Let’s dive in!

Covered on this page:

  • Eligibility Criteria
    • Minimum Commitment
    • Good Standing
    • Continuous Growth
  • Submission Timeline
    • Advance Notice
  • Request Process
    • Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
    • Step 2: Submit the LOR Form
    • Step 3: Personal Inquiry
  • After Submission: What’s Next?
    • Keeping You Informed
  • Behind the Scenes
    • How Your LOR is Crafted
  • Additional Information
    • Resume/CV Submission
    • Interfolio Requests
  • Requesting Re-evaluation of Generic Letters
    • Have You Received a Generic Letter Before?
    • Steps to Request Re-evaluation
    • Why Request a Re-evaluation?
  • Contact Us

🌟 Eligibility Criteria

To ensure you’re on the right track, let’s confirm that you meet the criteria for requesting a LOR:

  • Minimum Commitment: You’ve been a leader with PLTL for at least one semester.
  • Good Standing: You’ve completed the term successfully, without being blacklisted.
  • Continuous Growth: Remember, the more terms you serve, the stronger your LOR.

🗓️ Submission Timeline

  • Advance Notice: Please request your letter at least 2 months in advance of when you need it. This timeline is essential due to the volume of requests and the personalized attention each letter receives.

📬 Request Process

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Ensure you meet the above criteria to proceed with the LOR request.

Step 2: Submit the LOR Form

Fill out the detailed form to help us personalize your letter. It might take a bit of time, but it’s worth it! Submit LOR Form 📩

Step 3: Personal Inquiry

Got specific questions or issues? Fill out the form and choose the “Letters of Recommendation” option. This directly alerts Joseph Rahm, our LOR specialist. Inquiry Form 🤔

✅ After Submission: What’s Next?

Once you’ve submitted your request for a Letter of Recommendation, our team gets to work crafting a letter that highlights your achievements and contributions. Here’s how we keep you in the loop:

📧 Keeping You Informed

  • Notification of Completion: We’ll let you know as soon as your letter has been crafted or submitted, ensuring you’re always up-to-date.
  • Need Updates?: If you’re curious about the status of your letter or if you have any additional requests, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our program assistants, Joseph Rahm at jrahm006@fiu.edu. Make sure to cc our program at pltl@fiu.edu for seamless communication.

We understand the importance of timely and effective communication, especially when it comes to something as crucial as your Letter of Recommendation. Our goal is to support you every step of the way, making sure you feel confident and informed.

🖋️ Behind the Scenes

Your LOR is crafted with care by one of our program assistants, Joseph Rahm (jrahm006@fiu.edu), who works closely with Thomas Pitzer to ensure every letter is perfect. Thomas Pitzer himself will sign off your letter, adding a significant weight to your recommendation.

📎 Additional Information

  • Resume/CV Submission: Optional, but highly recommended for a personalized touch. Please send it to the confirmation email you receive after completing the form.
  • Interfolio Requests: If using Interfolio, list Thomas Pitzer (pitzert@fiu.edu) as the recommender. For additional contacts, include our office email (pltl@fiu.edu).

🌐 Requesting Re-evaluation of Generic Letters

Have You Received a Generic Letter Before?

We strive to provide personalized and effective Letters of Recommendation (LORs). However, if you’ve previously received a LOR from our program and feel it may not reflect your unique contributions and skills, we encourage you to request a re-evaluation.

Steps to Request Re-evaluation:

  1. Assessment Request: Reach out directly to our LOR specialist, Joseph Rahm (jrahm006@fiu.edu), to request an assessment of your previously issued letter. Include a copy of this letter if possible.
  2. Personal Statement: Submit a detailed personal statement along with your request. This statement should introduce you as if to a stranger, highlighting your achievements and specific aspects of your character that you’d like emphasized in the re-evaluated letter.
  3. Re-Submission: If your letter is deemed generic and lacking in personal detail, you will be invited to submit a new LOR Form. This process ensures that your contributions are freshly evaluated, providing a robust and detailed endorsement of your abilities and involvement.
  4. Contact: For any inquiries or further assistance, please feel free to contact our program assistants. Ensure to cc: pltl@fiu.edu for seamless communication.

Why Request a Re-evaluation?

A well-crafted LOR can be crucial in your academic and professional journey. By ensuring your LOR vividly reflects your role and contributions, we aim to bolster your applications for programs, scholarships, or employment opportunities.

💌 Contact Us

We’re here to help! For any additional information or personalized assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Let’s get you that glowing letter of recommendation and propel you towards your next big achievement! 🚀