A brag sheet isn't about boasting; it's about strategically showcasing your accomplishments to help your recommender write a compelling letter of recommendation. Think of it as a curated collection of evidence supporting your claims, making their job easier and your application stronger. This guide will walk you through creating a brag sheet that truly shines.
What is a Brag Sheet?
A brag sheet is a document you prepare for your recommender, providing them with all the necessary information to write a strong and effective letter of recommendation. It's not a resume; instead, it's a detailed, narrative-driven document that highlights your most significant achievements and qualifications relevant to the specific opportunity you're applying for.
Key Components of a Winning Brag Sheet
Your brag sheet should be organized and easy to navigate. Consider including these sections:
1. Contact Information:
- Your Name: Make sure it's clear and easy to find.
- Your Email Address: Provide a professional and readily accessible email address.
- Phone Number: Include a phone number where you can be easily reached.
- Application Details: Specify the program, position, scholarship, or opportunity you are applying for. Include deadlines if relevant.
2. Summary of Your Goals and Aspirations:
- Why are you applying? Briefly explain your motivations and career goals.
- What are your long-term aspirations? Connect your application to your future plans. This helps the recommender understand the context of your application.
3. Quantifiable Achievements and Accomplishments:
This section is the heart of your brag sheet. Instead of simply listing your activities, focus on showcasing your impact using the STAR method:
- Situation: Briefly describe the context of your accomplishment.
- Task: Explain the task or challenge you faced.
- Action: Detail the specific actions you took.
- Result: Quantify the positive outcomes of your actions whenever possible. Use numbers, percentages, and concrete examples.
Examples:
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Instead of: "Volunteered at a local animal shelter."
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Write: "Volunteered at the local animal shelter for two years, coordinating adoption events that resulted in a 15% increase in animal adoptions over the previous year. Successfully managed a team of five volunteers, improving overall shelter efficiency by streamlining intake and care procedures."
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Instead of: "Worked on a research project."
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Write: "As a member of Dr. Smith's research team, I conducted independent research on [topic], resulting in a publication in [journal] and a presentation at the [conference]. My contribution significantly improved the accuracy of the model by [percentage]."
4. Relevant Skills and Experiences:
List key skills and experiences relevant to the opportunity you're applying for. Support each skill with specific examples from your accomplishments.
5. Quotes and Testimonials (Optional):
If available, include positive feedback from previous supervisors, professors, or mentors. These testimonials add weight to your accomplishments.
6. Draft Letter (Optional):
Some applicants choose to provide a draft of the letter they envision their recommender writing. This helps align expectations and ensures the letter accurately reflects their achievements. However, it's crucial to present this as a suggestion, not a demand.
Tips for Creating an Effective Brag Sheet:
- Tailor it to each recommender: Customize your brag sheet for each person writing a letter, highlighting experiences and skills most relevant to their relationship with you and the application.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your brag sheet is free of grammatical errors and typos.
- Keep it concise: Aim for a one-page document; your recommender is busy.
- Provide ample time: Give your recommenders sufficient time to write the letter.
By thoughtfully crafting a comprehensive brag sheet, you're empowering your recommenders to write compelling letters that truly reflect your capabilities and increase your chances of success. Remember, it's about showcasing your value, not simply listing your accomplishments.
