I got a request for a letter of rec for a student applying to medical school via interfolio. I have some thoughts bc this student really hasn't handled things super well in terms of how they ended their work with me and how they approached me for a letter. (a thread)

Others may disagree with some of what I am sharing below - and I am eager to hear other perspectives.

I think if you are applying for grad school or med school, it is worth reaching out to potential letter writers directly and personally and to first ask if they would write a letter. You may likely want to ensure they can write a *positive letter*.

If you have been out of contact with them for a while, it would be good to send them your updated CV/resume - and to send some information on what you've done since you last worked together.

I think if someone senses they will want me to write LORs for them, it might be good for them to stay in contact - eg send updates on occasion. This isn't hard and fast-but it could help your letter writer feel like they have a continuing relat w you which may improve the letter.

If you are re-applying, you may want to highlight what you have done in the interim to make your application stronger. Give some bullet points that let them know what you've been up to and what you've accomplished.

Make sure they know what your goals are too. If those goals have changed, it's good for your letter writer to know. If they haven't, refresh their memory. It's probably a good idea to refresh their memory in several aspects of your work with them as well.

It would help them a ton too to share your statements, cover letters, etc. so they know what you are saying about yourself.

The point is to help your letter writer write a strong letter for you - and to make that as easy for them as possible. They should be able to report on who you are now, as well as the work you did with them in the past.

I also feel like you may want to think a bit about how you did working with/for this person and evaluate honestly whether it may affect their assessment of your work.

If you think they might have concerns, you may want to address those directly. Talk about what you have done to not make those mistakes again. You just don't want past mistakes to tinge your letters or to cause doubt in your letter writers' LORs.

No one is perfect - mistakes happen. Less than perfect grades or work or interactions happen. Just be up front and address it head on with your letter writer. And address what has changed, or what you learned, and how you are a better candidate than before.

Frankly, this will likely relieve your letter writer as if they feel like they may not be able to write a 100% positive letter, this will cause them some worry.

I think most of us want to write glowing letters - and for many of us, when we feel like we can't it causes a lot of consternation. Reduce any conflicts we might feel and put our minds at ease by addressing things directly and showing us you are an amazing candidate.