As you prepare your applications for study programs abroad – whether bachelors, masters or MBA – you are likely focused on your personal essays, college selection and standardized testing. Each of these is an extremely important part of the application process and should not be overlooked. However, another critical aspect of your application will be the letter of recommendation (LOR). Do not make the mistake of thinking that all you need to do is request an LOR and the recommender will do the rest. Your LOR, like everything else, requires planning and attention from you.