What to do when request for LOR isn't acknowledged

[Nico Corr]

I had planned on applying to three graduate school programs for the Fall 2018 application cycle, and need two for each school I am applying to. I reached out to two professors who I thought could write me great LORs, and only one has acceded to my request. The other I haven't heard from and I'm starting to worry that it's getting too late in the game for me to ask an alternate LOR writer. I don't have this professor's direct telephone extension, so I was thinking of calling the department he works in to see if he was still in the office. Is anyone else going through something similar? How did you handle it?

[kitcassidance]

When are your applications due?  If you have a strong relationship with the second professor, would reach out again.  I e-mailed all of my professors back in June (Dec 1 Deadline) and two responded quickly, and the third did not respond.  I reached out again to the third professor mid-July, and he responded quickly to the second e-mail.  I have a close relationship with a fourth professor (but research wasn't as closely related as the others) and asked if he would be able to write a letter if need be - although I didn't end up needing his letter, it was SO helpful in calming my anxiety when my third professor submitted hours before the final deadline.  I think asking a "backup" professor is a good plan, especially in the event that you've already followed up, or if this professor has not written you a letter in the past/indicated they would write you a letter.  Good luck! 

[pinoysoc]

I agree with @kitcassidance. As long as you have a very good relationship with your recommends, you shouldn't hesitate to remind them.. gently. Also,  you have to remember that they usually need a small reminder because they do get busy. Of course, it's a different story if the recommender is someone you just met or barely know. Always have a backup just in case! 

[Nico Corr]

Thanks for the responses pinoysoc and kitcassidance. I haven't heard from this one professor at all, and my deadlines are on January 1st, 15th and February 1st, so I am starting to get a little antsy. I'll call and see if he's on campus.