Letters of rec from current employer?

[WindZ83]

Hi guys,

I've been out of school and working at my current job for about 4 years. I'm planning on applying to grad school this fall but I'm concerned about asking my boss for a letter of recommendation. I assume he'll give me a positive review but I'm applying to programs in a different field that doesn't directly relate to what I'm doing now. I'm worried that if things don't work out (i.e. I don't get accepted anywhere) and I end up staying with the company they will question my commitment and the fact that I'm looking into other lines of work.

What do you think? Will letting my boss know that I'm exploring other options in different fields hurt my future with the company if I stay put? Any ideas on how to ask for letters of rec without potentially burning bridges? Your thoughts and suggestions would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

[gradap2010]

Hi guys,

I've been out of school and working at my current job for about 4 years. I'm planning on applying to grad school this fall but I'm concerned about asking my boss for a letter of recommendation. I assume he'll give me a positive review but I'm applying to programs in a different field that doesn't directly relate to what I'm doing now. I'm worried that if things don't work out (i.e. I don't get accepted anywhere) and I end up staying with the company they will question my commitment and the fact that I'm looking into other lines of work.

What do you think? Will letting my boss know that I'm exploring other options in different fields hurt my future with the company if I stay put? Any ideas on how to ask for letters of rec without potentially burning bridges? Your thoughts and suggestions would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

Unless he is an ass, he should realise that young people like you have a world in front of them and that they should explore different interests. As long us your performance does not weakean as a result of grad school application, he should not care. I would suggest being honest and telling him that you are interested in grad school but that it is just an option, and that your loyalty remains to the company for the time being.

Also, I think that a current supervisior is a good reference, because he can talk about your work habbits, leadership potential and people skills, so it does not matter that you work in somewhat different industry. Good luck with your apps!!!