Well I formally asked for a reference on the 11/10, and provided all the information they required (CV and a stupid self-assessment thing, and also gave details of the course I was intending on applying for, explaining why I wanted this application done quickly as possible). Anyway, I contacted them again a few days ago (02/11) and asked how they were getting along, and one of them said: “I had a look over the guidelines for the course, and it looks like we do not have to write a reference at the moment, they will contact us”, which basically means they have not even begun to think about writing it.
Personally, yes I believe they are obliged to write them considering postgraduate applications ask for them. Academia perpetuates its own importance, and if lecturers do not want to be burdened then they should stop asking for references – it really is that simple. However, I understand and completely sympathise with people who have to write references for students who were utter wastes of space, and that is what pisses me off. Why is my request being delayed when I gave them plenty of notice (even discussed it informally, warning them that I would ask for a reference soon), when I am one of the best students, and when I know they are writing references for mediocre waste of spaces, who never contribute anything in class?
What also pisses me off is the lack of universality in the application process. I want my referees to give me a written reference so I can upload that when I apply; I do not care whether I can read it or not, but I care about my privacy. If I want to let them know where I am applying then I will tell them. What I dislike is being burdened with outdated garbage like paper applications, and printing off forms for my references to fill in by hand then send them off in sealed and stamped envelopes. These people take themselves far too seriously.
That was grade A angst right there, folks.