I typically write letters of recommendation for students in support of their application for internships, jobs, academic programs, and graduate school. A letter will usually answer these 3 questions about the student:
1) How well do I know the student? In what capacity?
2) How does this student compare to his or her peer group?
3) Why is this student a good fit for the [insert internship/job/academic program]?
Given this, I can write you a strong letter of recommendation if
A) You have done well in my course (received an A or A-).
B) I know you well (personally, research, academically.
If you do not meet criteria "A" or "B", you should consider finding another professor to write you a letter.
To request a letter - add your information to this list. I will not complete your letter until you have sent me all the information that I request below.
For letters of recommendation for PhD or Masters programs, make an appointment to meet with me at least 8 weeks before the application is due. You are responsible for reminding me via email 5 days and 2 days before the recommendation is due.
Academic Recommendation (Law School, master degrees, post-bachelor research positions)
- Send me your cv and unofficial transcript
- List which courses you took with me including the semester and year. Include your final grade.
- In one paragraph, state specifically why you want to study at a specific school or program or want to work in that research position. The more specific you are the better. Is there something unique about the school that you want to attend? Are there specific professors whose research attracts you? Simply stating, “I really want to study at “X” school because I think will be interesting” is not sufficient.
- Using bullet points, send me specific examples of your work with me (in class or on a thesis) that highlight your strengths. For example, what's something that you did with me that required your creativity? Intellectual curiosity? Team work?
- Include a copy of work you submitted to me (i.e. final paper/project).
Academic Recommendation (PhD programs)
- Take the GRE
- Make an appointment with me to discuss
- Upon agreement to write you a letter I will need: your personal statement, transcript, a summary of your research if you are not directly working under my supervision
For internships and job recommendations, request letters 3 weeks before they are due. You are responsible for reminding me via email 5 days and 2 days before the recommendation is due.
Internship/Job Recommendations
- Email me your cv, unofficial transcript
- List which courses you took with me including the semester and year. Include your final grade.
- In one paragraph, state why you think you would be a good fit for the internship or organization that you are applying for. The more specific the better.
- Using bullet points, send me specific examples of your work with me (in class or on a thesis) that highlight your strengths. For example, what's something that you did with me that required your creativity? Intellectual curiosity? Team work?
- Include a copy of work you submitted to me (i.e. final paper/project).