At least one letter must be written by a science instructor that you have previously (or are currently) taking a course with. Preferably this will be a college instructor who knows you well enough to describe how you would both perform in and benefit from the ENSURE program. Note having a famous professor write a letter for you who does not actually know you would not help to strengthen your application. The other reference could be from anyone who knows you well from a professional setting, including but not limited to another instructor, an employer, a coach, or an advisor. Note a family member or close friend would rarely be an acceptable reference.

Preferably you will meet with your potential referees in person to ask for a letter; however, this may not always be possible and even so you likely will need to send an email to setup a time to meet in person. Here is a template for an email request. Whether you ask in person or by email there are several things to keep in mind:

• Remind the potential referee how you know them, why you think they would be the best person to write a strong letter of recommendation for you, and of your accomplishments. Offer to send your CV (see resources for CV).
• Let the potential referee know what the ENSURE program is and what you hope to gain from your participation in the program. Make sure to tell them about your current career plans.
• Give very clear instructions on when the recommendation is due and how to submit the letter. If you ask your referee in person, send a follow-up email with this information and your CV attached.
• Most importantly do NOT assume that the potential referee will be able to write a letter.
• Whether they agree to write the letter or not, be sure to thank the potential referee for their time.

As soon as you have made the decision to apply for the ENSURE program, you should start thinking about how to ask for letters and then ask as soon as possible. Most professors have a 1 month minimum time period they would need to be able to commit to writing a letter.

Most college instructors will know what to include in recommendation letters, but it is possible you would be asked what should be included in a reference letter. If you are asked, let your referees know to include:

• The context of how they know you and for how long. If they knew you as part of a group, a comparison of you to others in that group (i.e. in the top 20% of students)
• A description of your character, including both your strengths as well as struggles you have faced.
• A prediction of how you would perform in a research environment and how your participation in the ENSURE program would contribute to your future goals.

Letters should be addressed to the search committee and be between 1-2 pages long single-spaced. Even though the recommendation letters will be submitted electronically, they should be on professional letterhead and include their signature.

Referees will submit recommendation letters electronically using Qualtrics. When you complete your application, Qualtrics will automatically send contact emails to your listed references. Please reach out to ensure@utdallas.edu if there are questions.