These are great tips Loleen! One thing that has really helped me is I created a google form that all students have to fill out when they ask for a reference. It includes questions about how I know them, what they did in my class (or as my GA or whatever), their career goals, things they would like me to highlight, accomplishments they are proud of, challenges they have had to overcome etc... I get an email alert when the form is completed. My letters are not only more personal and detailed, but I get them done so much faster now. And I don't have to go back and sort through assignments or emails to find what I need. It only takes the students a few minutes to complete it. And it's great for students I haven't worked with in a few years and the details are kind of fuzzy.
These are great tips Loleen! One thing that has really helped me is I created a google form that all students have to fill out when they ask for a reference. It includes questions about how I know them, what they did in my class (or as my GA or whatever), their career goals, things they would like me to highlight, accomplishments they are proud of, challenges they have had to overcome etc... I get an email alert when the form is completed. My letters are not only more personal and detailed, but I get them done so much faster now. And I don't have to go back and sort through assignments or emails to find what I need. It only takes the students a few minutes to complete it. And it's great for students I haven't worked with in a few years and the details are kind of fuzzy.
I love your approach more my own, Shannon! This is great.
The two approaches are very complementary!
Chocolates and wine - after all it is the weekend and many thanks - as someone who has 42 refs to write this year this will be extremely helpful 👍
42!! That calls for chocolate and wine for sure! Good luck with it. :-)
Super helpful, Loleen! Thanks. /Damien
I am so glad you found it helpful, Damien! I imagine you write a law school reference of your own from time to time...
Incredibly helpful- thank you!
My pleasure, Ami - I am glad you liked it!