Asking for LoR...the third time

[Virago]

So I just finished applying to gradschool (7 programs) in early February (for Fall 2013) and I am currently in the waiting phase. I realize there's the possibilty I might not get in this cycle and I figure I should do something productive with my time i.e. apply to a summer internship at my local museum; and that's exactly what I intend to do. The problem: I feel totally uncomfortable asking my referee for another LoR. You see, I applied to said internship last year and got rejected, and my referee wrote me a LoR. Then came October I asked for another LoR for gradschool which he so kindly agreed to write. Now, I would like to re-apply to the internship (with much better odds this time since I'm graduated and have a solid writing sample) but I feel very awkward asking him. Considering the possibility I might need yet another LoR for the next cycle provided I'm rejected from all programs. Maybe I'm being pessimistic. I hate asking for favors. Thoughts?

 

Also, doesn't it suck to tell your referees you got rejected from an internship/gradschool? I hope I don't have to deal with that. The fear of failure.

Edited February 23, 2013 by Virago

[daydreamer254]

I was scared to ask my letter writers for more letters, but they were more than happy to submit them. Take the jump and ask, nicely. A "sorry" goes a long way as well!

 

As for getting rejected by grad schools, I did have to do that and it was not fun.

[emmm]

Anyone who has been in academia knows what it's like. I think multiple applications and the ongoing need for letters of recommendation are just part of the life. It's great that you have people who believe in you and your abilities and who want to see you do well. Don't be afraid to keep going back to them, but do make sure to express your appreciation and to share news/updates -- especially good news!