MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT
REQUESTING RECOMMENDATIONS
Fall, 2007
The faculty in the Music Department is happy to provide graduate school and job recommendations for students in the program. In order to support student achievement, the following set of guidelines has been formulated to assure that the best information is included. Recommendation requests are often made several years after a student has taken a course with a faculty member, so proper documentation of student work can help inform the best letters.
Any recommendation will be more effective if an instructor can personalize it with telling details. A personal statement helps meet that goal. In it you should state your interest in music. Furthermore, you should mention your motivation and interest in the position you are applying to (graduate school, professional school, teaching position, staff position, etc.). Why do you want to do this thing? What personal qualities have prepared you for it?
Students requesting recommendations for graduate school should give ample time, preferably at least two weeks, before filing deadlines and provide the following materials and details.
 |
A filled out and signed recommendation form for each school (or clear instructions for accessing on line materials). |
|
A signed indication whether or not the student is waiving a right to see the recommendation on file. |
|
Clear identification of the intended degree program. |
|
An addressed envelope with each recommendation form (Manhattanville envelopes can be requested from the Music Office) with appropriate postage. |
|
An indication of course work taken with the faculty member |
The best recommendations for a job or graduate school are based upon solid information. To ensure that student goals and priorities are clear, the following information should be included with recommendation requests.
|
An unofficial college transcript, including details for any transfer courses. |
|
A short summary of the most significant experiences at the College, e.g., a special internship, performance highlights, details of larger assignments in classes, or senior project/recital. |
|
Significant details included in any application essays that can help to identify particular goals for graduate study or work. |
|
Any recommendation request for employment applications should also include a current resume. |
| MUSIC DEPARTMENT |