collegeguy07
Junior Member
What is the name of your state? WI
I'm a college student at a private school in Wisconsin. I have an issue that I would like some advice or interpretation on. I have done some of my own research but am not sure.
I was asked to write a letter of reference for one of my good friends for a position here on campus. I was hesitant to do so but decided to after she was close to the deadline to do it. On the very top of the form, she signed an optional waiver that said "I waive my right to review and inspect this form." Because of that, I felt comfortable in giving an honest, open review of my friend assuming that it was a document she would not have access to.
After the decision was made on the position, and she did not get it, she went to the administrator in that department and asked why she did not get a spot. She was given her complete file to look through, including the letter that I wrote. This letter, while not inappropriate, did contain some serious critics of my friend.
Since this happened last week, she has ended our friendship. (We were best friends, going to most meals together, always hanging out on the weekend, etc. Now she refuses to respond to my phone call, refuses to acknowledge me on the street, etc.) I am very upset at the administrator for showing her the letter.
Does she have any right to review the reference form if she signed the waiver on the top? I read parts of FERPA and am under the impression she cannot see the form. What legal right does the university have to protect my statements? Is there anything that I can do legally in this matter?What is the name of your state?
I'm a college student at a private school in Wisconsin. I have an issue that I would like some advice or interpretation on. I have done some of my own research but am not sure.
I was asked to write a letter of reference for one of my good friends for a position here on campus. I was hesitant to do so but decided to after she was close to the deadline to do it. On the very top of the form, she signed an optional waiver that said "I waive my right to review and inspect this form." Because of that, I felt comfortable in giving an honest, open review of my friend assuming that it was a document she would not have access to.
After the decision was made on the position, and she did not get it, she went to the administrator in that department and asked why she did not get a spot. She was given her complete file to look through, including the letter that I wrote. This letter, while not inappropriate, did contain some serious critics of my friend.
Since this happened last week, she has ended our friendship. (We were best friends, going to most meals together, always hanging out on the weekend, etc. Now she refuses to respond to my phone call, refuses to acknowledge me on the street, etc.) I am very upset at the administrator for showing her the letter.
Does she have any right to review the reference form if she signed the waiver on the top? I read parts of FERPA and am under the impression she cannot see the form. What legal right does the university have to protect my statements? Is there anything that I can do legally in this matter?What is the name of your state?
Last edited: