Good Letters of Recommendation

MBA program applicants often have a difficult times procuring recommendation letters that work. If you are wondering what qualifies as a good letter of recommendation, who better to ask than an actual admissions representative? Here's what they had to say:

Good Letters of Recommendation Show Strengths and Weaknesses
''The best letters of recommendation highlight with examples both the strengths and weakness of the candidate in light of a peer group. Typically, admissions offices limit essay length, but we all encourage recommenders to take the space they need to help build your case.'' - Rosemaria Martinelli Associate Dean of Student Recruitment & Admissions at Chicago Graduate School of Business

Good Letters of Recommendation are Detailed
"When choosing someone to write a letter of recommendation, don’t get wrapped up in title, you want someone who can really answer the questions. If they can’t answer the questions, they aren’t really helping you. You want some one who knows what you have done and what your potential is." - Wendy Huber, the Associate Director of Admissions at the Darden School of Business

Good Letters of Recommendation are Insightful
"Letters of recommendation are one of the few components of an application that are submitted by an objective third party. They provide important insight into an applicant's professional abilities and characteristics. We ask for two letters of recommendation, ideally from professionals as opposed to professors, and one is required from a current, direct supervisor. It's important to find people who can provide true insight into your professional accomplishments and potential to be a future leader." - Isser Gallogly, Executive Director of MBA Admissions at NYU Stern

Good Letters of Recommendation are Professional
"The two letters of recommendation that you submit should be professional in nature. Your recommenders may be anyone (current/former supervisor, former professors, etc.) who is able to comment on your personal qualities, career potential, and potential to succeed in the classroom. Recommenders should know you personally and be familiar with your work history, credentials, and career aspirations." - Christina Mabley, Director of Admissions at McCombs School of Business

Additional Resources

• Advice from Admissions Officers
• Sample Recommendation Letters