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Career Services

Upcoming Events | Job Bulletin and Job Listings | Employer Services
Reference File Service | Cover Letters and Resumes
Contact Us | Frequently Asked Questions

Reference File Service

Matriculated students and alumni are encouraged to establish a reference file. The file consists of reference letters and a cover letter, which can be sent to prospective employers upon request. The Career Services Office will send five sets of references out free of charge, after which there is a fee of $2.50 for each file mailed out.

Note: Even though you might not plan to use the service now, it is useful to establish a file while you are a student; it can then be updated throughout your career.

Tips for Requesting a Reference

• Don't be afraid to ask someone for a reference, but be sure that he or she will say good things about you.
• Do not list someone as a reference unless you have asked for his or her permission.
• Follow up with a telephone call if the letter is not written in a timely fashion; people are busy and often forget.
• With references, quality is more important than quantity. Do not have too many references; three to six is plenty.
• Make an effort to get recent references (although relevant older references can be used).
• Keep copies of your references. Bring them to the interview in case you are asked for them.
• Have telephone numbers and email addresses of references with you. Many employers prefer to contact a reference by telephone or email, as they feel they might receive more valuable information that way.
• Establish a reference file with the Career Services Office.

Starting a Reference File

To get started, print out and complete the following forms. Please review these materials with your advisor before bringing them to the Career Services Office. Include a resume. (This is for office use only and will not be mailed to employers with your references.)

• Cover Page
• Authorization Form

Give a blank reference form to each person you are asking to serve as a reference. They may also use letterhead or a separate sheet of paper instead of the reference form.

• Reference Form (blank)

Ask the references to send the letters directly to the Career Services Office. Please check your file periodically until all references are in; sometimes, reminders are necessary.

All forms are also available in the Career Services Office.

Return completed materials to:

Career Services Office
Bank Street College
610 West 112th Street
New York, NY  10025
212.875.4657