What is a Credential File?

The credential file is used to store letters of recommendation from professors and previous employers. The file may be sent to prospective employers and graduate schools to support your application.

How to Establish a Credential File

To establish a file, you must first complete a Credential Release Form .  The top portion of the Recommendation Form should then be completed and a recommendation form should be given to each person you have asked to write a reference letter.  The form should be attached to the letter and returned to the Career Development office. Your letters will be held in a file in the Career Development Office.

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, you have the right to review all contents of your file unless you waive that right. You must indicate whether you retain or waive the right to review the contents of your file on the Credentials Release Form.

Please note: It is preferred by graduate and professional schools and school districts that recommendations be confidential—waiving your right to review the contents of your file.

What goes in a Credential File?

If applying to graduate school, you will want two recommendations from College faculty or staff; at least one member of your major department who knows you and your work is suggested.

Student teachers are advised to include their supervising teacher and a member of the Education Department as references. Former employers and internship supervisors can also serve as references.

Providing references with a copy of your resume can be helpful to them in writing the recommendation. You should provide off campus references with a stamped envelope addressed to the Career Development office.

Procedures for Having File Forwarded to an Employer or Graduate/Professional School.

To have a copy of your Credential File sent, you must notify Career Development in writing (fax or email are fine).  Include the name, address and any other information we will need to mail your Credential File.  Also, be sure to include your current email, mailing address and phone number so we can notify you that your file has be sent. The first ten requests will be sent at no charge to you. Each request thereafter will cost $3 per packet. All requests that are faxed will cost $1 per page. We process requests within 42 hours after receipt.