Quote:
Originally Posted by Zillini
Over recent years the University of Alabama has increased its out of state recruiting with significant efforts in Texas. This has translated in far more PNMs from TX, thus more Recs from TX alums. In my experience TX alums do their Rec writing a bit differently than most any where else, and let me say I truly appreciate how organized they are. There is an obvious game plan.
We typically receive a packet of info on a PNM that includes a resume, transcript, pix, 1 completed Rec form, and then additional alum letters of support. We have even received support letters with notes attached saying something along the lines of "Please add this to Patty PNM's packet because I was unable to complete it before the mailing deadline." For a chapter that is inundated with Rec info, this is great because it simply cuts down on the quantity of paper we have to deal with. We really don't need 20 copies of a resume.
As for how personal the Rec or letter is, as in the "strength" of the recommendation based on personal knowledge of the PNM, well that depends. Some Rec forms are incredibly strong, personal, and detailed. Some letters are pretty darned generic and it's obvious the alum doesn't know this PNM. Or vice versa. It's a case by case basis. Yes, we read every single thing we receive and yes, it's incredibly time consuming.
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Yes
I, too, applaud the organizational effort of the Texas alums. The Texas info sent to the U of Arkansas is exactly as Zilllini explains. So, if your alum panhel group took care of it, I'd say you are covered.
In my experience, asking someone for a rec means that often a personal letter is attached. In fact, my GLO form notes that it is appropriate to attach a letter. PNMs should let the alums worry about this and follow the general advice given here, at their local alum panhellenic, online, etc by simply securing the suggested number of recs/letters. Many orgs utilize either as the official recommendation. The alum will do her part. PNMs just need to ask for the number (3 recs or letters suggested = 4 alums; someone may drop the ball) and let the alum do the est.