Master of Community and Regional Planning 

at The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque

University evaluate a letter’s strength by the following criteria:

• Quality as a writing sample: A clear statement of applicant’s academic and professional trajectory.
• Recent personal growth and potential: Evidence of applicant’s personal growth and potential (this is a more subjective criterion, but is based in our desire for students who are committed and motivated, who have already begun their intellectual development and who have real potential to continue that development in this program, and beyond as a planning professional).
• Fit with CRP program: The fit of applicant’s interests and background with CRP program (in terms of our community-based philosophy and community focus, natural resources, physical planning and/or community development content emphases, and our concern with issues of equity and social justice).
• Relevancy of applicant’s experience and background: In terms of professional or volunteer experience in some aspect of community based planning; community and regional planning content in the applicant’s experiences.