Assistant Professor
Department of Communication/Journalism
St. John Fisher College
Fay 211• (585) 385-7277 • jsarachan@sjfc.edu

Office Hours for Fall 2009:
MW: 1:30-2:15
TR: 1:30-3:00

5 Items to Consider Before Asking
for a Reference Letter

(The following don't all have to be true, but it may be better if they are.)
  1. Are you giving Professor Sarachan ample time to write a thoughtful recommendation (at least one and preferably two weeks)?
  2. Did you receive at least a B (or B+) in Professor Sarachan's class?
  3. Did you participate in class regularly—does Professor Sarachan know you well?
  4. Can you define what Professor Sarachan should focus on in the recommendation? Can you articulate what you want him to write about you?
  5. Do you have all of the documents Professor Sarachan will need to have to write the recommendation?