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Academic reference

  • 23-05-2020 07:55PM
    #1
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 265 ✭✭


    I graduated in 2012 and am now applying to do a masters. A requirement of the application however is an academic reference.

    How exactly would I go about getting this? I went to UCD and there was a fair amount on my course. I wouldn't have known any lecturers personally. But I can't be the only one whos encountered this situation?

    Does anyone know the process for getting an academic reference in these circumstances?


Comments

  • #2
    Sad Professor
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 22,713 ✭✭✭✭Sad Professor


    Don't worry that you didn't know them personally. Most lecturers are well used to giving references to students they didn't know/remember/barely spoke to.

    Just pick a module you did well in, email the lecturer explaining that you took their module in x in year y achieving a result of z and would they now be be willing to provide a letter of reference to assist in your application to do an MA. Keep it simple, a few sentences. If they agree they may ask for a CV and for details on the course - be clear, tell them what you want/need, don't waste their time.

    Don't leave it too late - lecturers get a lot of emails and some aren't very good at answering them and can be very busy. It took me over 2 months to get two references. I'd suggest you request it from more than one so you have a backup. And if you don't get an answer wait a few weeks and email them again asking if they have had time to consider your request.


  • #3
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 265 ✭✭ [Deleted User]


    Sad Professor wrote: »
    Don't worry that you didn't know them personally. Most lecturers are well used to giving references to students they didn't know/remember/barely spoke to.

    Just pick a module you did well in, email the lecturer explaining that you took their module in x in year y achieving a result of z and would they now be be willing to provide a letter of reference to assist in your application to do an MA. Keep it simple, a few sentences. If they agree they may ask for a CV and for details on the course - be clear, tell them what you want/need, don't waste their time.

    Don't leave it too late - lecturers get a lot of emails and some aren't very good at answering them and can be very busy. It took me over 2 months to get two references. I'd suggest you request it from more than one so you have a backup. And if you don't get an answer wait a few weeks and email them again asking if they have had time to consider your request.

    This is great! Thanks a mil.


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