I have three recommenders in mind, two of which are direct supervisors (one at a higher level of management than the other). Can anyone offer any advice on how to tactfully approach this issue? Although I believe they will support my efforts, I would think that I need to be sensitive about the topic showing I may have intentions to leave the company for school. I would think needs to be handled carefully to avoid career consequences (in case the application to a school doesn't work out). A potential concern is that if I don't get into the school(s) of choice, prolonging it a year may give someone the attitude of "Hey, we're not going to promote this guy. He's leaving anyway." Any advice is greatly appreciated. I don't necessarily think that will be the case but it is something that plays in the back of my mind.