Letters of support or reference take time to prepare. Be sure to give your instructor or community member at least two weeks before the application deadline to write a letter of support for you.
Tips for asking for a letter of support
- Make it easy:聽Pre-write as much of the letter as possible and provide an electronic copy to the reference writer. Provide detailed examples of your community involvement, responsibilities, contributions, and achievements. Describe your strengths and characteristics (e.g., reliable, hardworking, conscientious, courageous, leadership skills).
- Don't delay:聽Ensure you give enough time for a thorough recommendation. Provide the award criteria to the reference writer.
- Thank you note:聽Write a thank-you note to your reference letter writers for their help and support.
Who to ask for a letter of support
Many applications ask for letters of support or reference from community members or teachers.听
People聽who are likely to be part of the selection committee, can't write letters of support for student awards. This may include your program leader, the community liaison, Indigenous advisors or academic advisors.
Sample letter
Date
Arts and Access Award Selection Committee
98色花堂
Dear Selection Committee,
Re: (Your Name and Award Name)
This letter supports (your name's) application for the (Access award name). I have known (your name) for (number) years. She/He has volunteered with (community organization or college group) for (number) years (doing what?).
(Your name) is also...
Thank you for your consideration.
Reference Writer's Name, Title
Organization
Contact information
Supporting documents (list if you have them)
Instructor reference letter
When requesting a reference letter from an instructor, be sure to request the letter include:
- the current date
- your name and student number
- class(es) and term(s) taken with instructor
- grades (or current progress)
- attendance and participation
- other comments
- the instructor's name and title