How to Request a Letter of Recommendation from Me
As a professor, I write letters of recommendation for students with whom I have worked closely. This includes any student who has collaborated with me on a project frequently (e.g., URAP students). While "frequency" is difficult to define precisely, let’s put it in a simple way. I need at least 5-10 meetings or interactions with you to write a strong letter. This amount of contact allows me to observe your work quality, team collaboration, critical thinking etc.. and create a customized, detailed letter rather than a generic one. I don’t like to fill my letters with generic praise. Instead, I describe your personality and work ethic through concrete examples from projects you've completed with me. This approach is more persuasive and meaningful than a template letter.
For MLA advisees: You are expected to meet with me proactively at least once per semester. If you do not meet, a strong letter will be difficult to write and I may reject such requests. Sign up for my office hours to chat or enroll in my graduate-level classes are good options.
If you were a student in a class I taught (especially classes with online lectures), the best I can provide is a generic template letter that includes: 1) a description of the course content, structure, difficulty level. 2) A statement that we have not worked together; 3) Your course grade if you wish and your standing in this class (e.g., top 30%).
Most universities ask questions in their application portal, such as "rate this applicant's ability to work independently.” For generic letters, I will mark most of these fields as "Not applicable."
I understand this policy may seem strict and cold, but I receive many requests annually from students I don't recognize. This procedure ensures I can provide equitable letters.
If you still need a letter after reading this, please provide the following information:
· Your Full Name
· Relevant Classes: List any classes I taught that you took, and specify the year/semester.
· Program Name: Specify your program and year. For example: "1st Year MLA Student at UC Berkeley"
· Grade: Include your course grade(s) if you want them mentioned in the letter. Please do not lie here, as I have all the previous years' grade books.
· Final Project Description: If you have a class project you'd like me to highlight, provide a brief description including tools used and deliverables created. I keep records of student work and can reference the quality of your contributions.
· Recipient Information: Provide the email address where I should send the letter and any required information (your name, application ID, etc.). If the portal requires phone/address information, use the contact of my department (LAEP).