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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]No, that would not be appropriate.

It is part of their job.[/quote]

Maybe it's not appropriate, but it is certainly NOT a part of the job.[/quote]

It is definitely NOT a part of my job. I am not required to write a single LOR, and my administration would not force me to write one. These are done on our own time. I write all of mine over the summer, a process that usually takes me over 40 hours (unpaid) to write them all. I’m happy to do it because I want to help my students on their way to college. To be clear, though: this is done as a favor. I usually write 35-40 a year, and each one is unique. I don’t use templates or old letters.

I’ve been doing this for 20 years. I’ve received a total of 3 thank you notes. It isn’t common, to be honest, and I suspect that’s because people believe it’s part of our jobs. I don’t expect them, but I LOVE receiving cards.

My own child is a senior. She wrote thank you cards to her recommenders.

[/quote]

I totally disagree. And I say that as a professor who has written countless recommendations for graduate school, jobs and internships. It IS part of your job, if you think like a professional (vs an hourly worker who only does what is spelled out in your union contract). [/quote]

+1. If you want to treated like a professional you do these on your own time and recognize that’s how it works. No one is going to take anything off your plate to give you time write them. Because of what I teachh I get hit with PhD application season at the very hectic end of fall semester and med school application season in the summer when I am “off contract”.

The most I’ve ever gotten is a thank you card or box of chocolates. Obviously it’s different when the students are young adults on their own and often broke, but I would never accept a $100 gift card from a student for writing a letter. I would feel so weird doing that. A heartfelt note is more than enough. [/quote][/quote]

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