Is this a big deal?? HELP!

[JLB1215]

Hey everyone...so I am a senior in a bachelors program and am applying to paid summer internships now. There really aren't that many in my area though since a lot of the hospitals where I live are doing budget cuts. Anyway I applied to this one that I REALLY want to get into and someone new in HR is running it. She asked for "2 references" not "2 letters of recommendation" on the application page (I even copied and pasted it for my records so I would have it as a checklist). This was all due yesterday!! I thought I had everything in but when I called them today to make sure they had everything of mine she asked me for letters of recommendation!!! I was so upset because I KNOW it said references. I told her I will contact my professors ASAP and ask them to email them to her. She said "make sure they do it quickly though". UGHHH how the hell am I going to make them quickly send letters of recommendation?! They are both busy RN's with kids! Im so nervous and upset about this. Is this a big deal? Do you think I still have a chance??? I sent the HR lady a nice email saying thank you for speaking with me earlier and to expect emails from my professors, I also copied and pasted the information I had that said "references" incase other students have the same issue....what do you think??

[mrsboots87]

Its a sucky choice of wording on their part for sure, but most career jobs want recommendations, not just a phone number for someone you know. To speed things up, write the recommendation letters yourself. Make sure they are worded formally ad speak to your strengths. Then email them to your instructors to approve and forward. If they don't have to write them themself, and what's written is an accurate depiction of you, then they will appreciate it and it will be faster than them finding time to write one up themselves.

[JLB1215]

Yeah...I guess I figured that a phone call was more personal then a letter and maybe thats what they wanted. I sent an email to them asking to write the letter and email it directly to her, and they are pretty by the book so not sure they would be happy I wrote it for them. Idk looks like ill just have to wait and see. Im going to just hope for the best but expect the worst...thanks for the help though!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

emails are probably the best source. If you have worked anywhere, you might request a letter from former employer regarding your work ethic. Pastor, etc. is another choice. Good luck with this loop you have to jump!