To References and Recommenders

For the DAY Society, a recommendation letter should reflect the organization's pillars: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, Character, and Citizenship — while maintaining a professional tone suitable for a selective, mission-driven society. If you find yourself at a loss for words or need guidance on writing your letter please please refer to the following and don't hesitate to contact membership@daysociety.org 

Suggested Format:

1. Letterhead (if applicable):

   • Recommender's name, title, institution/organization

   • Contact information

   • Date

2. Salutation:

   • "To the Selection Committee of the DAY Society,"

   • "Dear DAY Society"

3. Introduction (1 paragraph):

   • How the recommender knows the applicant

   • Length of time and nature of relationship

   • General statement of support

4. Body (2–3 paragraphs):

   • Specific examples of the applicant’s:

     • Academic achievement (Scholarship)

     • Initiative or leadership roles (Leadership)

     • Commitment to service or civic engagement (Service & Citizenship)

     • Integrity, maturity, or resilience (Character)

   • Why the applicant would thrive in DAY Society

5.  Conclusion

   • Strong closing endorsement

   • Offer to provide further information if needed

   • Signature

More Format Tips:

• Please keep to 1 page max

• PDF format preferred

• Professional tone and formatting

Must be submitted separately by the recommender to membership@daysociety.org titled "Recommendation Letter for [Applicant's name]"

Recommendation Letter Downloadable Example