Originally Posted by Sciencewoman

Prepare a "rec packet" to give to any alumna who agrees to write a recommendation for you. Include a social resume with your contact information, GPA and SAT/ACT score, extracurricular activities, special honors or accomplishments, hobbies, volunteering, work experience, etc. One page should do it. Include a nice head shot and full length photo, and a copy of your transcript. Be sure to thank the member in writing after you've delivered the packet. It helps to include a large envelope with stamps, so the alumna doesn't have to foot the bill for your rec. Some PNMs address these, but I prefer it if they don't because sometimes the address that is listed on the university's website is the "cattle call" dropbox; I have access to the particular alumna's address who is the rec collector, and I can be assured of personalized attention when I use that sister's address.

Some groups are going electronic, so they may want electronic copies of your materials.