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Is it too late to ask for recommendation letters?

justadreamer

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I worked closely with a doctoral student and a professor. I assisted and published research.

I graduated in 2014.

They wrote me letters before to go to doctorate programs in social sciences. I didn't get in to any of the schools I applied to. (I should have did more applications).

I told them I would keep them updated of my future plans and to please keep my letters on file.

But I haven't spoken to them since late 2014.

Now I want to apply to public health programs. Would it be awkward to ask for help now after 3 years? They can attest the most to my research abilities, but would the experience be outdated at this point from the admission's perspective?
 

SaLiLi

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nope the worst they can do is say no. if you're employed in your field you should try getting letters from them and if you've interned anywhere
 

Terriann

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No, its not too late.

Apologize for being out of contact, let them know what you've been up to and ask to schedule time to meet. Then when you meet, ask them for the letters of recommendation.
 

justadreamer

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nope the worst they can do is say no. if you're employed in your field you should try getting letters from them and if you've interned anywhere

I am not employed in my educational field. I have helped another doctoral student after graduating, so I will be asking her for a letter.

But the first two actually have their credentials and I thought that would go a longer way.
 

AnjeeBanjee

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nope the worst they can do is say no. if you're employed in your field you should try getting letters from them and if you've interned anywhere

Oh well I was going to say this- good idea- but op says she’s not working.

One of my grad school recommendation letters came from a college professor who I never studied under, but who was coworker of mine.
 

justadreamer

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Oh well I was going to say this- good idea- but op says she’s not working.

One of my grad school recommendation letters came from a college professor who I never studied under, but who was coworker of mine.

I am working, just not in my educational field.
 

chelley

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Ask them, but provide your resume, research, personal statement, and anything else to jog their memory about your work ethic and help them write a strong recommendation letter. The worst they can say is no, but considering they provided a letter for you before, they'll probably do so again.

Good luck!
 

Cryeisha

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@justadreamer

I just stumbled upon this thread, and now I feel like it left me on a cliffhanger like it’s a soap opera. What was the end result?

My advice would be to ask even if it’s been more than a few years cause you never know unless you try.
 

justadreamer

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@justadreamer

I just stumbled upon this thread, and now I feel like it left me on a cliffhanger like it’s a soap opera. What was the end result?

My advice would be to ask even if it’s been more than a few years cause you never know unless you try.
I’m still working at the same job as when I created this thread. It’s not traditionally within my educational field. But it has allowed me to support myself and others to some extent.

I never applied to public health or a grad program in social science. At this point in my life, I’m looking to prioritize having a simple life for my physical and mental health instead of being career driven. It makes me a bit sad but I know it’s best for me in the long run.
 

Cryeisha

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@justadreamer

I relate to that. I given up career opportunities due to my mental health.

I can’t regret it, it’a really out of my hands...
 
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