Questions about Transferring to Other COLT PhD Programs

[giveitago]

Hi I am posting this in hopes of having your input concerning my plans to transfer. I am currently enrolled in a COLT PhD program and in fact greatly enjoy what I am doing here. Unfortunately, I have to transfer elsewhere due to my partner's job relocation. Yes, it might sound a bit irrational, but to me my relationship means much more than where I eventually receive my terminal degree—and I am not a big fan of long-distance relationship.

Okay, my questions are about letters of recommendation, and P.S.

To begin with, do you think it's a good idea at all to ask professors I have worked with in my current program to write me letters of recommendation? I don't mean professors that are housed within my department; but those who are not formally affiliated with my program (no doubt that we in COLT work across departments.) Their letters should definitely enhance my chances, because I have grown so much intellectually during my stay here, for which their letters should speak. If I do ask professors here, how do you think I should approach the topic and address them properly? It might be very embarrassing and feel stupid to be turned down. And even worse, what if they report, or disclose this carelessly , to my program director and yet I end up not succeed in transferring, which is very possible, given the competitions?

Secondly, how should I, if at all, address this issue in my P.S.? Should I be honest in saying that it is for personal reasons that I am transferring? Or should I make a case that, say, their program is a much better fit? Or should I just not mention this, assuming the admission people will figure it out anyways? I would much appreciate your suggestions or even sharing of your similar experiences.

In any event, good luck, everyone, with your applications. I can not believe I am doing this all over again. This whole application process is simply a roller coaster.

Edited August 9, 2012 by giveitago