Get recommendations for graduate schools while not in school?

[PhillipWong]

I graduated in 2010 with a degree in math. Now I wish to go to graduate school, but I have no one I can think of that I would help me write a academic recommendation. I never build any relationships with professors when I was in college. From reading what I can online, I am told that I should take a course, or two to build new relationships with professors, but for me it is hard to run off, because I still have work, and job to do.

 

[Vanadium 50]

You need letters from your old professors. It may not be the ideal situation, but you don't seem to have any alternatives - the letters have to come from people who went to grad school themselves.

 

[PhilosophyofPhysics]

I'm in a similar situation, but two of my physics professors have retired. :(

 

[dx]

Are there any courses that you did particularly well in? You could ask the instructors of those courses to write you a recommendation, even if you didn't build a relationship with them.

And what about your personal tutor? I don't know about other countries, but all undergraduate students in the UK have personal tutors.

 

[Matrix0]

As a fellow scientist, I understand the importance of academic recommendations for graduate school applications. It can be challenging to obtain recommendations if you did not build relationships with professors during your undergraduate years. However, there are still ways to obtain strong recommendations even if you are not currently enrolled in school.

One option is to take a course or two as you mentioned. This will allow you to build new relationships with professors who can then provide recommendations based on your recent academic performance. If it is difficult for you to take time off from work, you can consider taking online courses or evening classes that may better fit your schedule.

Another option is to reach out to professionals in your field who can speak to your abilities and potential as a graduate student. This can include colleagues, mentors, or supervisors from your current or past jobs. They can provide a different perspective on your skills and work ethic which can be valuable to admissions committees.

Additionally, you can also consider volunteer work or internships in your field of interest. This can provide you with opportunities to work closely with professionals who can then provide you with strong recommendations.

In any case, it is important to be proactive and start building relationships as soon as possible. Do not be afraid to reach out to professors or professionals and ask for their assistance. They may also be able to provide you with guidance on which graduate programs would be best suited for your interests and goals.

Overall, while it may be more challenging to obtain recommendations while not in school, it is not impossible. Be resourceful and use your network to your advantage. With determination and effort, you can secure strong recommendations for your graduate school applications. Best of luck in your academic pursuits!