RECOMMENDATIONS

Dear Former Student,

I take requests for letters of recommendation very seriously because you are asking me to attach my name and professional reputation to your past, present, and future endeavors.

For that reason, I limit my recommendations to a very select group of former students who are also long-term mentees (who have met with me regularly) and former clients with whom I have developed strong, highly knowledgeable relationships. 

*All requests must go through my pre-screening process to determine whether I am the most appropriate person to write on your behalf.

Please review the questions below and submit responses to those that are relevant.

Background Questions

• How do you know me? For how long? In what capacity?
(Example: course title, topics covered, and when you took the course — you may use the syllabus as a guide.)

• How frequently have we communicated? What topics or experiences have we discussed one-on-one that specifically align with your current request? What out of our conversations should I share if your employer/school were to call me? 

• Identify three (3) traits, skills, or abilities the school, program, or organization is seeking in its candidates. Explain why you believe you possess these qualities.

• Where, when, and under what conditions have I observed or evaluated you demonstrating these traits, skills, or abilities?

• Why do you want to attend this university, join this program, or work for this organization?

• Why do you want this degree or position — and why now?

• What is one area of growth or improvement you recognize in yourself related to this opportunity, and how are you addressing it?

• Since we met, have you been involved in any illegal activity or have any legal matters currently pending? (This will not automatically disqualify you, but transparency is important. As a business owner with liability insurance, I must consider these factors.)

• What two (2) assignments did you perform well on in my class (or another course I am familiar with)?

What grades did you receive?
How did the assignments prepare you for this next step?
What feedback did I provide?

• Why is this the right time for you to return to school or pursue this opportunity?

• Why do you believe I am the most appropriate person to write this letter on your behalf?

• Have you conducted any informational interviews with admissions staff, alumni, hiring managers, or former employees to gain insight that informs your application?

• If relevant, please provide your GPA (major and cumulative), standardized test scores, and relevant coursework grades.

• Have you had any academic infractions, complaints from faculty, disciplinary actions from employers, or terminations from employment?

• What two or three leadership, volunteer, professional association, or board roles have you held that are relevant to this opportunity?

• What words would you use to describe yourself?

• How did you contribute to my class or program in a way that supported collaboration and went above and beyond your peers?

• Who are your other confirmed recommenders or endorsers (name, title, and how long they have known you)?

• Is there anything else you would like me to know?

Please Also Provide

If relevant, please include the following materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Interest or Personal Essay
• LinkedIn profile and any public professional social media links
• Link to the school, program, or job posting
• Date by which the letter must be completed for your review
• Final submission deadline
• Instructions for submission (to whom the letter should be addressed and where it should be sent)

Please submit your responses (bullet points are acceptable) and all relevant documents to:

admin@NataschaFayeSaunders.com

*REVIEW PROCESS 

Upon receipt of your materials, your request will be reviewed. Within 14 business days, I will determine whether I am the most appropriate person to write your recommendation.

Please note that I do not accept most requests. My goal is to ensure that any recommendation I provide is both credible and meaningful for the opportunity you are pursuing.

All the best,
Thank you.