Clubs &
Resources
The small size of our program offers a unique opportunity
to work closely with faculty on individually-tailored programs. We
also encourage students to work with each other in writing and thesis
groups; to take part in Departmental Colloquia; to present theoretical
papers and research findings at professional meetings.
California
Sociological Association
Pacific Sociological Association
Society for Applied Sociology
American Sociological Association
Tips for
Asking about Letters of Recommendation
When you are competing for a place in a graduate
program, for a scholarship, or for a job, sometimes -- most of the
time, in the case of scholarships and grad school applications --
your letters of recommendation from people who know you and know
your work are the deciding factor in whether or not you will succeed.
Here are some hints for improving your chances. The earlier in your
career here at Cal State East Bay you start working towards effective
letters of recommendation, the better your chances of standing out
above the crowd and demonstrating the traits that these committees
or employers are looking for. Look carefully at what's wanted by
the people or the committee the letter will go to. If they ask for
a statement of purpose and/or mention specific criteria they want
addressed, make sure you actually "fit the profile." Prepare a draft
statement of purpose and also prepare a draft of short paragraphs
that could honestly describe you. Tie the criteria or "power words"
to specific tasks or projects you did that the professor knows about
(in a course, in an independent study or Co-op Ed project, in a
field placement or internship). Don't make them try to remember
everything you did -- refresh their memories with specific examples.
Take your drafts to at least one of the people you want to recommend
you, and see if they will help you to make them sound as professional
as possible -- and as truthful and accurate as possible. It is a
very BAD idea to have spelling and grammar errors or typos in these
drafts... Also bring along anything else relevant -- a copy of your
transcript, copies of all the materials the grad school or employer
sent you, your resume, etc.
For more hints about getting good letters of recommendation, try
some of the following university
web pages:
Hanover College
How to get
good letters of recommendation Forthright Letters of Recommendation
Remember -- no one is required to write you a letter of recommendation,
so ask nicely and give them something to work with.
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