Best Recommendation Letter for Graduate School Design
Best Recommendation Letter for Graduate School Design
1. Header (Optional)
Include your contact information at the top:
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Your Name
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Your Title/Position
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Your Organization
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Your Contact Information
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Date
2. Salutation
Address the letter to the admissions committee or the relevant person, using a formal greeting:
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Dear Members of the Graduate Admissions Committee,
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To Whom It May Concern,
3. Opening Paragraph: Introduction and Relationship
Begin by introducing yourself and your relationship with the applicant. Mention how long you’ve known them, and in what capacity (mentor, teacher, supervisor, etc.), and give a brief overview of why you’re recommending them.
Example: "I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant's Name] for admission to the [Program Name] at [University Name]. As [his/her/their] professor and mentor at [Your Institution], I have had the pleasure of working closely with [Applicant's Name] for the past two years, during which time I have come to know [him/her/them] as an exceptionally talented and driven designer."
4. Middle Paragraphs: Highlight Skills and Achievements
Focus on specific examples of the applicant’s skills, work ethic, and contributions. For a design program, emphasize:
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Creativity and Innovation: Discuss how the applicant approaches design problems, their originality, and unique vision.
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Technical Proficiency: Mention proficiency in design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software, etc.), artistic techniques, and other relevant skills.
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Project Leadership/Collaboration: Highlight projects where the applicant worked in a team or took on leadership roles.
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Problem-Solving Ability: Describe how the applicant tackles challenges or complex design problems.
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Communication Skills: Emphasize their ability to articulate ideas through both visual and verbal presentations.
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Potential for Growth: Address how the applicant's academic performance and practical projects reflect their ability to succeed in graduate school and beyond.
Example: "[Applicant's Name]’s work consistently demonstrated a level of creativity and precision that is rare among students. One of [his/her/their] standout projects involved redesigning the branding for a local nonprofit, where [he/she/they] took the lead in creating a sleek, modern identity that perfectly captured the organization’s mission. Not only was the design highly creative, but it was also functional and adaptable across various media, from print to web platforms."
5. Closing Paragraph: Endorsement and Enthusiastic Recommendation
Conclude with an enthusiastic endorsement of the applicant’s abilities and potential. Express your confidence in their future success and that they will be a valuable addition to the graduate program.
Example: "In conclusion, I am confident that [Applicant's Name] will thrive in [University Name]’s graduate design program. [He/She/They] has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both personal and academic growth, and I believe that [his/her/their] unique vision and design thinking will contribute greatly to the design community. I give [him/her/them] my highest recommendation without reservation."
6. Closing and Signature
Wrap up the letter formally and include your full name, title, and signature (if submitting a hard copy).
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Sincerely,
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Best Regards,
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Yours Faithfully,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Company Name]
