Is it appropriate to use a classmate as a job reference?

ClearBlueOctoberSky · Mar 8, 2012

IMHO, NEVER.

You are competing with that classmate in the job market. How do you know that she isn't applying to the same jobs as you? Are you really sure that she is going to give you a stellar recommendation?

Instead, ask your teachers or DON/ADON if you can use them as a reference. Maybe there was a Preceptor that you got along well with that would be willing to reference for you. Even if your previous job experience isn't healthcare related, I would recommend that you contact people you worked with and ask them if they are willing to be a professional reference for you.

I just wouldn't trust my classmate as far as I could throw them, but maybe that is just me.

grownuprosie · Mar 8, 2012

I don't think it is ok from a credibility stand point. The employer will not be able to tell the difference on paper from a classmate with an objective opinion of you and your BFF from nursing school who is going to tell them rainbows fly from your every orifice. They will probably assume the latter. I agree that a preceptor or nursing instructor would be the best person to ask for a reference. references look better when the writer has letters after their name anyway.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Mar 8, 2012

IMO, not as a professional reference as there is no professional relationship between you. You'd be better off asking an instructor, preceptor or even an outside person (such as the boss of your last pre-nursing job, community leader) to serve as a reference.

You could list her as a personal reference (there is a difference). If you insist on doing this, tread very carefully. I'm not saying your friend will definitely do this, but keep in mind that this is a very competitive job market for new graduates. If the two of you are going to be competing for the very same jobs...well, let me say even good people can do desperate things in desperate times, and I'll leave it at that.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Mar 8, 2012

classmates can only attest to your character, not your work ethic.

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Mar 8, 2012

work ethic is part of character, in my opinion.

a classmate certainly can't speak to your ability as a nurse, because she doesn't know anything more about it than you do. potential employers want more informed opinions on that.