.png)
Summer school is only two or three weeks long. Can we really get a professor's recommendation letter by doing this?
For students aiming for Top 20 US universities, summer school recommendation letters are undeniably crucial. They are typically submitted to admissions officers as supplemental recommendation letters.
Among the Top 20 universities, exactly 10 allow the submission of supplemental recommendation letters: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, Stanford University, University of Chicago, Duke University, Northwestern University, University of Pennsylvania, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Dartmouth College, and Rice University.
Student | Academic Scores | Summer School | Main Activities/Awards | Applied Major | Applicant Persona |
Student A | SAT 1540 IB 44.5 | Stanford Humanities Summer School | Feminism Project, Philosophy Public Account, Philosophy Club, NSDA/TOC/NHSDLC Champion + Best Debater, CGCP Finalist | Philosophy Gender Studies | A philosophy enthusiast advocating for gender equality |
Student A, who was admitted to Stanford, emphasized that to get a recommendation letter from a summer school professor is vital and requires serious effort. Through deep academic interactions—like closely reading ancient Greek philosophy with a Stanford professor and writing a paper on toxic masculinity under a Vanderbilt professor—he secured a rich, compelling recommendation letter.
However, many students worry: "I'm only there for two or three weeks and won't know the professor well. Can I really get a letter?"
Here is how to master the "interpersonal" side of this process.
01 Make the Professor Remember You To get a weighty recommendation letter, establish a relationship early.
Don't be a "Ghost" in Class: Actively participate in discussions and share insightful views. Student A read materials three times before every seminar and always came prepared with questions.
Office Hours are Your "Secret Weapon": Break the stereotype of the "quiet, good student" by frequently attending office hours and asking sharp questions. Don't just go to ask about homework or show your face. Ask substantive questions about the lecture or the professor's published papers. Note down key takeaways to use as material for future emails.
02 The Right Timing to Ask Once the professor knows you, how do you pop the question?
Choose the Right Time: Ask one week before summer school ends or within two weeks after. Don't wait until the application deadline. Maintain contact with the professor even after the program ends.
Ask in Person if Possible: Approach the professor during office hours or after class. Introduce yourself, mention a specific theory or moment that inspired you, and politely ask if they would be willing to write a letter for your college application.
Prepare a Brag Sheet: Duke University explicitly notes that teachers should use specific examples rather than generic praise. A Brag Sheet helps the professor recall your stories. Include:
Resume: Extracurriculars, awards, leadership.
Target Universities/Majors: Your application direction.
Best Work: Your top essay or project report from the class.
A "Cheat Sheet": Answer why you liked the class, challenges you overcame, qualities you want highlighted, and your future academic goals.
Keep the requested letter to about one and a half pages, and remember to sign the FERPA waiver so colleges know the letter is independent and authentic.
Email Template for Requesting a Letter: Subject: Recommendation Letter Request - [Your Name] - [Course Name] Dear Professor [Last Name], I have truly enjoyed your class on [Subject], especially the discussion on [Topic]. It has solidified my interest in pursuing [Major]. Now I am applying to [Program at University]. Because of your firsthand observation of my work in [Specific area], I believe you could speak to my [Quality/skill, e.g., analytical thinking, intellectual curiosity, team collaboration]. Would you be willing to write a strong letter of recommendation? The deadline is [Date], and I will send my resume and a brief info sheet right away. Thank you for your time and consideration.
03 Following Up Securing a "yes" is just the beginning.
Provide Materials Immediately: Send submission guidelines, deadlines, and the correct email address right away to make the process as easy as possible for them.
Send Polite Reminders: If the letter isn't submitted a week before the deadline, send a gentle, friendly reminder asking if they need any additional information.
Express Sincere Gratitude in Three Stages:
Immediate thanks: When they agree, confirm with a short email and attach your Brag Sheet.
Post-submission thanks: Send a handwritten note or a small gift.
Result feedback: Email them immediately when you get your admission results to share the joy.
Treat this process as a genuine academic networking practice. By thinking proactively, asking brave questions, and maintaining relationships, that strong recommendation letter will be a natural result of your journey.
**Want to Learn More About Our Programs? **
Feel free to contact us through the following channels:
Official LINE: @panoedu
Phone: 02-8771-3190 / 0912-090-325
、
Comments