Request LoR from a professor who you would apply for later

[DumbKi]

Hi everyone!

I was applying for PhD programs of the US universities. I had a connection with a professor from the UK and he is perfect as a recommender except that I'll also apply to be this professor's institution and want to be supervised by him, I was worried if it would make him feel upset - probably thinks himself was not the first choice of my applications.

[Quickmick]

When I was finishing my MS and applying to PhD programs I had to ask my advisor/committee chair to write letters even though I was also applying to remain his student too. I think I felt fat more awkward about it than him. Even with his lor there was no guarantee I was going to be admitted (though the chances were high). In the bigger picture, these are professionals that understand there are lots of factors involved in the process and ultimately they want us to make the best decisions for our careers and our families. I would ask and try not to worry about it too much.

[DumbKi]

On 12/11/2019 at 8:02 PM, Quickmick said:

When I was finishing my MS and applying to PhD programs I had to ask my advisor/committee chair to write letters even though I was also applying to remain his student too. I think I felt fat more awkward about it than him. Even with his lor there was no guarantee I was going to be admitted (though the chances were high). In the bigger picture, these are professionals that understand there are lots of factors involved in the process and ultimately they want us to make the best decisions for our careers and our families. I would ask and try not to worry about it too much.

Thank you very much for sharing your experience! I did worry too much - I asked at last and everything went well now!