By Adela Penagos, PhD

Each academic year, I get several requests from current and former students to recommend them for study abroad and graduate or professional programs, fellowships, internships, and other opportunities. Whenever the student is a strong candidate for his or her pursuit, I agree to strongly support him or her and it is a pleasure to write a letter on his or her behalf. However, if my letter is not going to set the student apart, I decline the request. I would like to offer you some tips on how to ensure that your recommendation request will translate into a glowing endorsement: