Students often ask faculty and staff to serve as professional references for jobs, internships and other employment or academic opportunities. Faculty and staff can provide valuable insight into a student's skills, work ethic, and experiences while still respecting FERPA and student privacy.
Providing Student References
Western has traditionally used a reference release form for students to give faculty and staff permission to serve as a reference. However, the form has caused confusion, is not used consistently, and can create unnecessary barriers for both students and staff.
Western is removing this additional step and instead encouraging students to communicate directly with faculty and staff when asking them to serve as a reference. Students should also share the position they are applying for so the reference can be tailored to the opportunity.
A student's request for a reference does not give permission to disclose everything in their student record. References should focus on the faculty or staff member's own observations and experiences with the student.
If you are asked to provide information from a student's education records, or you're unsure whether something can be shared, pause and contact Career Services or the appropriate college office before responding.
