system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
8 year old reference? bit embarrased to ask...

Salutations all,

I'm a bit embarassed to ask my undergraf proffs for a reference, as at age 30 I'm now JUST applying on grad programs...

They have given me references in the past, and did so happily as I was a great student in their classes, but that was about 5 years ago. So now it's been about 8 years since the first time I asked them for a ref...

Bascially my question is: have other people here had to do this? Is this frowned upon? I really didn't want to bother them as its been too long... but might have to. They probably remember me.. but should I say "hi there xxx... I know it's been 8 years.. not sure if this is appropriate etc... but I am applying on xxx.. "

&#x200B;

edit: you guys made me much more relaxed about reaching out to them. thanks!
gpt
Just ask straight forward. Introduce yourself with your name, student id number and courses you have taken along with transcripts. Then tell you are applying for grad school and their recommendations will help advance your case. Almost all professors oblige and try to help. If not then you move on to another professor. 

Remember that “by assuming they won’t give so i am not gonna ask”  will give you worst outcome than ask them. Because in fist instance your failure rate is 100%. In second case, your chance is 50%. Take a chance :-). 

Goof luck and all the best for your successful application and subsequent graduation.