<p>I know that letters of recommendation are an important factor in grad school admissions, especially those coming from academic people such as professors. My question is, how 'close' do you have to be with these professors to ask them for a letter of recommendation? I finished my undergrad degree exactly a year ago. I wouldn't say I was ever close with any professors, I didn't talk to any of them after class or develop any kind of relationship with them, although a few of them told me I was a good student when handing back tests or papers and what not. Do you have to be close with a professor to ask them for a letter of recommendation? I have been out of school for a year and have obviously not talked to any of my previous professors, so am I screwed when it comes to academic letters of rec? How do I go about asking professors for letters after being out of school for a while and also not even knowing them that well to begin with?</p>
<p>No, you don't have to be particularly close. Writing LORs is part of their job.</p>
<p>As to how - you just ask. </p>
<p>What you'll probably need to do in your emails is explain which class(es) you were in and when. You might also consider attaching a copy of whatever excellent paper your wrote for the class along with a transcript so they can get an idea of who you are academically.</p>
<p>If you still live near campus, don't dismiss the possibility of simply scheduling office hours and meeting in person, though that is tricky at this time of year. Bring along papers and transcripts and you should be good to go.</p>
<p>Cool. Good advice. Thanks! I guess I didn't think of that as part of their job. I just thought they had to know you well or else they wouldn't have much to write. I guess they just have to know your work and how well you did in their class. Probably best to pick the professors whose classes you got the best grades in right?</p>
<p>You are kind of walking out on a thin branch, though. Not to be an alarmist, but if a prof doesnt know and is only going on a grade you received in his / her class, you'll get a very middle of the road LOR. </p>
<p>I would advise making a point to (re)connect with one or two of your old professors by either calling or visiting them during their office hours. Quickly catch them up on your life's plans, with the preface that you are leaning on them for their advice. You will get both advice and perhaps a stronger LOR. They might even know about the programs you are applying to and be able to speak to those in their letters: "I have sent several students to your university and this one stand out!" etc...</p>
<p>Even if your LORs are kind of stinky, dont fret. Admissions looks at everything, and different programs, as you know, place different emphases on each application component.</p>