Career Advising at EOU

What is a Candidate File? 
It is a reference file that you provide to a school district to accompany your teacher application.  Some school districts call it a placement file.  It contains a cover page and at least three or more letters of reference.  We recommend five to seven current letters (written in the last five years.)  For recent graduates, your final student teaching evaluations from your supervising teacher and university instructor may be considered references.

What about transcripts?
Your EOU transcripts are not kept in this file.  Official transcripts may be obtained at the Registrar's Office. Additional information and the transcript request form is available at www.eou.edu/regis/transcripts.html or call (541)962-3519.

How do I obtain the materials for my self-managed file?
Letters of reference can be requested by anyone you choose, but most school administrators prefer references from someone who has observed you in a teaching capacity.  Recommendations from your supervising instructors, cooperating teachers and administrators are the most effective.  However, good references from community and volunteer activities, showing your leadership and coaching skills, are also beneficial.  Personal references are the least effective.

Ask the writer to type a one-page recommendation on their letterhead, if possible.  Provide the writer with your current resume.  This will give them a broader view of your qualifications.  Copies of typical job listings in which you are interested will also help them identify the most relevant aspects of your background to highlight in the letter.  Make sure the writer includes their phone number so the reviewer can follow up with a call, if necessary.

As a courtesy to the writer, offer to pick up the reference in person or provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope.  If you do not want your reference to be folded, use a large manila envelope.

Tips for managing your file
Keep your documents in a safe and clean place.  Make sure that the copies you make are high quality, without smudges or marks.  It is best to print letters on white or off-white paper to provide clear faxed or photocopied prints.  Organize the documents in a logical and orderly fashion.  Remember, the point is to make a positive impression on employers!

Carefully read and follow all instructions that come with your teaching application.  Each school sets their own application process and document requests vary.  Don't hesitate to ask the school administration office to clarify any questions you may have about the required paperwork.  Always keep a photocopy of the applications you submit. It will save you time!

Submit your references together in a packet organized in a way that highlights skills and experiences for that particular job.  Design a conservative and professional-looking cover sheet that might simply say, "References for (your name)." Include your social security number.

Finally... In order to keep your references up-to-date, you will want to maintain contact with your reference writers.  Keep them informed of the status of your job search.  A quick note or phone call will do the job.  In any case, a thank you letter is always appropriate when you get a job, to let your references know you appreciate their assistance!