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Do you need to ask a professor to be a reference? When you're completing undergraduate or graduate studies—or have earned your degree recently—you'll likely want to ask a professor or academic advisor for a reference as you begin to apply for jobs. References could also be helpful for fellowships, internships, or academic opportunities.
Find out who to ask, what information to include in your email request, and review sample reference requests to professors and academic advisors.
People familiar with your academic work and performance are excellent choices to ask for recommendations as you begin your career. You may not have a lot of related work experience in your chosen field, and your professors can speak about the knowledge and skills you have demonstrated that will help you succeed in the industry you are targeting.
If possible, request a reference letter from a professor or advisor who knows you well and respects your work and character. That is, don't request a reference from a professor if you were frequently late or absent from the class or did not receive a good grade. Ideally, choose someone who you've spoken to outside of the classroom—during office hours, for instance, or at departmental activities.
Respect people's schedules—if possible, request a reference letter several weeks in advance of when the semester ends or when you'll need it.
When sending the email message, include your name in the subject line. For example:
Joe Smith: Reference Request
If you don't know the professor or advisor well, make your connection clear in the email. For instance, you can say, "I enjoyed your class on XYZ, which I attended in Spring 2024." It can also be helpful to include a summary of related coursework and school activities, along with your resume and cover letter.
The more detailed information you provide, the easier it will be for the reference writer to endorse you. Review these tips for what to include.
The following are examples of email messages to use when you are requesting a reference for employment from an academic advisor or a college professor.
Subject: Jessica Angel Reference Request
I am writing to you to request that you provide a reference for me as I begin my job search. As you know, I will be completing my graduate studies this spring, and have found several exciting opportunities that I am exploring.
As my undergraduate thesis advisor and mentor, I believe that a reference from you would provide a potential employer with information to recommend me as a school counselor.
If you need any additional information, please contact me via email or phone.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
Here's a sample email message asking a professor to provide a recommendation for employment.
Subject: Recommendation Request - FirstName LastName
Dear Professor LastName,
I have greatly enjoyed and benefited from the four classes that I took with you over the past three years. I was hoping you might know me well enough and have a high enough regard for my abilities to write a general recommendation for my credentials file.
As you can see from the attached cover letter, I am targeting positions in the publishing industry that will draw upon my writing and editing skills, as well as my organizational ability.
I have included a summary sheet to refresh your memory about some of my key papers, including my senior thesis. I have also attached my resume, which will bring you up to date about some of my accomplishments outside the classroom.
Please let me know if you are comfortable endorsing my candidacy for jobs in the publishing industry. I would be happy to answer any questions and provide further information to help you write your recommendation. Can we meet during your office hours to discuss this further?
Thanks so much for all you have done for me and for taking the time to review this request.
Firstname Lastname
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email
Looking for your first job? Consider using a character reference (personal reference) in addition to or as an alternative to academic and employment reference letters.
Once your professor writes the reference, make sure to send a thank-you note to your reference, acknowledging the favor. You can either send a handwritten note or an email.
Still looking for tips and guidance? Review more sample reference letters and recommendation letters, samples for character references, and letters asking for a reference.
