How directive can one be with LoR writers?

[porfiry]

Is it proper etiquette to "advise" one's LoR writer's on what they should write in the letter? Basically, here's my situation: I'm applying to grad school (philosophy) 5 years after completing college. There's one program that I'm really interested in because of its strength in German philosophy. Now, one of my LoR writers is a distinguished German history professor. When he responded to my email saying that he'd be willing to write for me, I was simply relieved that he still remembered me after all this time. I was basically just happy to have secured another letter!

Now I'm thinking that it would be great if he could tailor the letter to university X by highlighting my background in German studies (in addition to German history, I also took language, literature, Nietzsche, Schopenhauer). Is that acceptable, or should I just be grateful that he has agreed to write for me and not risk annoying him?

[swisnieski]

Yes, I believe that's fine. Most professors realize that graduate schools look for specific things in their applicants and that letters should therefore address those things.

I am currently applying for a research fellowship from the NSF which asks recommenders to address some very specific things, including a description of past research, academic and research potential, and an evaluation of the applicants' plan for future research. I gave all my letter-writers hard copies (and also sent them e-mails) of the NSF standards, plus a bulleted list of my academic accomplishments and research/teaching experience. They were all very grateful -- I had, after all, made their job easier!

[socialcomm]

I did something fairly similar to Swis -- I emailed them a general overview of my background which contained information they wouldn't have known otherwise. I didn't suggest what to include or not to include -- although perhaps I should have!

[a fragrant plant]

I suggest you send them your CV detailing your educational background and academic accomplishment. It will help the recommender to construct an effective LOR.

[Nikki]

I put together a packet for my LOR writers that included: transcripts, CV, writing sample, list of universities and how to submit the letters, and an explanation of my research interests.

[socialpsych]

Definitely send a CV and an explanation of your research interests, or a draft of your SOP if you are comfortable sending one. For people I wasn't currently working with, I also put together some of the work I'd done for them, as a reminder.

In addition to all of that, it would probably be fine to explain what sort of thing you want the person to play up.

[captiv8ed]

Two of mine asked for specific talking points for the letter. I think professors appreciate knowing exactly what needs to be stressed.