You are encouraged to create an account when the application opens on February 3 in anticipation of submitting your Neeley Fellows application. Through creating an account and accessing the Neeley Fellows application, you will be able to submit the name and contact information of the individual who will be providing a recommendation on your behalf. In order to give that individual ample time to complete your recommendation before the March 7 deadline, you are strongly encouraged to submit the name/contact information as early as possible so they can receive the link to complete the recommendation.
Provide recommenders with a brief introduction to the Neeley Fellows program and direct them to the Neeley Fellows website for more information so that they can provide a thoughtful recommendation that speaks to your fit for Neeley Fellows.
You should reach out to the individual that you would like to submit a recommendation on your behalf prior to submitting their name and contact information confirming their willingness to do so.
Question-Based Format:
This year, we are asking your recommender to respond to a series of questions through the application platform in lieu of submitting a letter of recommendation. The questions are related to the context the recommender knows you, some of your accomplishments and your personal attributes that are related to what we are seeking in a candidate providing examples that demonstrate those attributes. Some of those attributes include academic potential, dedication/commitment, work ethic, resilience, leadership, initiative, attitude, integrity, passion for learning, team work/collaboration, growth mindset (for example, willingness to receive feedback, development oriented).
Recommender Selection:
Choose someone to submit a recommendation on your behalf that knows you well and can speak to your strengths, accomplishments and specific traits and attributes, such as high school or college teacher or counselor, employer, or community leader. Keep in mind the questions mentioned in the prior section that the recommender will be asked to answer and think about who might be best suited to thoughtfully respond to those questions on your behalf. A family member, friend, and paid independent college counselor is not a suitable recommender. A minister or spiritual leader is acceptable only if the applicant was/is involved as an employee, intern or in community service through their faith-based organization.
Timing:
Approach the person whom you wish to write your recommendation at the beginning of the application process providing your recommender ample time to research the program and submit their recommendation. Deadline for Neeley Fellows to receive your letter of recommendation is March 7, 2025 and will be submitted by the recommender via the application portal. You are responsible for ensuring that your letter of recommendation is submitted by the application deadline on March 7, 2025.