Request a resume and academic transcripts from the physical therapy graduate candidate. Ask the candidate to write down his long term goals. Gather this information and list three strong personal characteristics. Jot down personal qualities, such as passionate, knowledge of physical therapy, strong, reliable and team player.
Write your name and address in the upper left-hand corner. Include your street address, city, state and ZIP code. Write your contact number. Include a valid email address. Following a double space, write the date.
Include a proper salutation such as "Dear Mr. Brentwood" or "Dear Graduate Admissions."
Write the opening paragraph. Use a friendly tone and include five to six sentences introducing yourself and explaining why you are recommending the candidate. Here's a sample introduction statement, "My name is Jane Smith and I am writing to recommend John Gates to your doctoral program in physical therapy." Explain to the school how well you know the candidate. Here's a sample sentence: "As a former employee of mine, John is passionate about physical therapy and will be an asset to your program."
Write the body. Include at least eight solid sentences. Highlight relevant information and use persuasive language. Since this is a professional recommendation, make reference to the candidate's resume. For example you might write, "John has been a physical therapist for over six years and has helped hundreds of individuals regain motor skills." Or you might list some of the candidate's on-the-job achievements, "As a physical therapist, I have witnessed John spearhead a program for retired athletes that worked very well." Choose and include at least three attributes that the candidate may possess that makes him a good fit for a doctoral program. Some example attributes are: avid reader, organized and critical thinker. Include statements that discuss these attributes in the body of your recommendation.
Write the closing. Include one to three sentences. Thank the reader for his time. Write your availability and include a contact number where you can be reached. Inform the reader that you were happy to provide a recommendation for the physical therapy doctorate program candidate. Write the closing signature. Choose an appropriate closing title, such as "Sincerely," "Respectfully submitted" or "Thank you." Type your name underneath after a double space. Place your signature in the middle of the closing signature and closing title.