Whether you’re applying to a U.S. high school, college, or graduate school, letters of recommendation play an important role in the admissions process. Many applications require at least three recommendation letters, and teachers or professors who have taught you are often the first people students turn to.
Most schools use the Common App or their own application systems to have recommenders submit letters online. Writing a recommendation letter is an additional responsibility for teachers and professors, who may receive many such requests from students each year. Yet, most students don’t follow up after making the request.
Once a teacher or professor agrees to write your recommendation letter and submits it, there’s one important step that many students overlook: sending a simple thank-you note to express your appreciation for their time and support.
Why write a thank-you note?
Taking just a few minutes to thank the professor who helped you is a small but meaningful gesture. A well-written note shows your appreciation and leaves a lasting, positive impression, making professors more likely to remember and support you in the future.
How to write a thank-you note?
Your thank-you note doesn’t need to be long or overly detailed. A brief expression of gratitude is enough. You can send the note right after submitting your application or wait until you receive an offer.
While an email is quick and convenient, a handwritten card is a potentially thoughtful touch. It shows you took extra time and effort to express your appreciation. Here’s an example of a simple thank-you note:
Dear Dr. Smith,
Thank you for taking the time to write a letter on my behalf for my college application. I truly appreciate your support throughout this process. I’ll keep you updated about my progress. Thanks again for your assistance; it means a lot to me.
Sincerely,
Sally
You can always add more to your thank-you note, depending on the nature of your relationship with the professor. If you enjoyed their class, let them know. Share your gratitude for any guidance they provided during the application process. If you had meaningful conversations or experiences with them outside of class, mention what that meant to you. A little extra detail can make your note feel more personal and sincere.
Remember, a simple thank-you note can go a long way in showing your appreciation and maintaining a positive relationship with your professors.
If you need assistance with your application process, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
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