Real Talk #61 – Asking for a recommendation letter
Dec 13, 2023
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Learn useful expressions for asking for a recommendation letter. Discover the history and purpose of recommendation letters. Explore the significance of extracurricular activities in college applications. Get tips on choosing a major and specializing within your field of study.
Recommendation letters provide additional information about an applicant's character and abilities in university applications.
Developing strong relationships with teachers helps secure quality recommendation letters.
Deep dives
Asking for a Recommendation Letter
In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the importance of recommendation letters for university applications. They explain that recommendation letters provide additional information about the applicant's character and abilities. The hosts also provide tips on how to ask for a recommendation letter, including requesting a one-on-one meeting with the teacher and expressing gratitude for their help. They emphasize the importance of extracurricular activities and explaining the reasons for choosing a particular major in the recommendation letter. The conversation concludes with a discussion about setting a deadline for the letter.
Key Expressions and Vocabulary
Throughout the podcast, the hosts introduce and explain several key expressions and vocabulary related to asking for recommendation letters. Examples include phrases like 'Are you available to talk one-on-one for a few minutes later today?' and 'Could you tell me a little bit about why you're interested in engineering?'. They also discuss the meaning of terms like 'extracurriculars' and 'undeclared', which are commonly used in college applications. The hosts advise listeners to become familiar with these expressions and vocabulary to effectively communicate their requests for recommendation letters.
Importance of Building Relationships with Teachers
The hosts stress the importance of developing strong relationships with teachers and mentors to secure quality recommendation letters. They recommend choosing a teacher who knows the student well and can write about their interests, extracurricular activities, and work ethic. The hosts encourage students to actively engage with their teachers by participating in class, asking questions, and seeking guidance. They explain that a good rapport with teachers helps them write insightful and personalized recommendation letters.
Have you ever had to ask for a recommendation letter? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you many useful expressions that are helpful not only in that situation but also in many other everyday scenarios. This episode is designed to improve your vocabulary and boost your confidence in English. You don’t want to miss it!
Fun facts
Did you know that recommendation letters have been around for a long time? In ancient Rome, people used recommendation letters to obtain jobs or positions of influence. During the Renaissance era, students began using these letters for admission to universities or higher education institutions. Even today, the purpose of recommendation letters remains the same, providing a personal endorsement of someone’s skills and character, just as it did hundreds of years ago.
Expressions included in the study guide
Are you available to talk one on one?
Undecided
To major in [something]
What extracurriculars are you involved in?
Is there a deadline?
With a fine-tooth comb
Copyright: Culips.com
For more information about this episode, visit culips.com.
Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free
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