grad school application process problem...need advice

[libnnc]

So here's the deal. I'm in the process of applying to grad school (the same university where I've earned my BA). I've had some professors offer to write me recommendation letters. I need three letters. One prof has come through already. All she asked me for was the address and a deadline. The other two (after being really gun-ho and encouraging) have asked me for copies of my unofficial transcripts and or a CV. I've given them everything they've asked for and I still sense they're giving me the run around. Should I be worried or give it some time before asking them again?

[jody]

1. Remind them of your deadline for submission. Profs are notorious

for promising and then forgetting.
:hi:

[Maddy McCall]

2. Ask them if they need any additional info, and remind them of the...

deadline.

Jeez, it's getting really close--the deadline--isn't it? I would have assumed that the deadline had already passed. Our department sends out acceptance letters in the spring.

[libnnc]

4. History Dept deadline is very late

July 1st for the fall and November for the spring.

[Maddy McCall]

6. Wow.

I'm in a university history department. Our deadline is March 15 for the Fall.

[SnowGoose]

3. I'd suggest you set a date that will leave you a little room

to find alternates to write your letters, and then (poliltely) ask the professors if they think they'll have time to do this by that date. That way, if they don't have time, you're not screwed.

This is ususally a good time for faculty, because grades are in, and most don't teach (or don't teach much) during the spring/summer terms. However, individual results may vary (my boss, for instance, is writing 2 papers, writing a grant, putting together a new course for next year, and (hopefully) he's going to be helping me run some experiments all next week - so maybe they're just super busy like him).

That's why setting a specific date you "need" them by might help.

Good luck!

[libnnc]

5. Thanks. I thought I gave them the date in my emails to them.

But I'll try again. I consider them both "friends" and have maintained pretty good correspondence with them. Thanks for the info.