References

So I get a former student emailing me yesterday and asking if I can be a reference for him.  He earned his AS degree in architecture and now he's out looking for a job.  This presents a bit of a strange situation for me, as I am unemployed and also looking for work in the architecture field.  Clearly, we are not at the same position level, as I have a Master's degree, 6 years of full-time work, and my license.  But in this market, beggars can't be choosers, so I have to expand my search parameters, as will he.  It's not unreasonable to think we might end up applying for the same position at some point.  I fell a bit anxious about this fact.  Will I become Obi Wan to his Darth Vader?  Will the apprentice sleigh the master (so to speak)?