Letters of recommendation
I am happy to write letters of recommendation for current and former students. Before asking me for a letter, ask yourself the following questions:
- How well do I know this professor? Have I interacted with him before or after class meetings?
- Have I talked to him about my possible academic/professional goals before asking for a letter?
- Is this professor the best possible recommender for the program/scholarship/internship to which I am applying?
- Will this professor write me a “good” letter of recommendation?
In order for me to write the best possible letter, please supply the following:
- The name of the program/scholarship/internship to which you are applying, along with a brief description.
- The name and title of the person who will receive the letter (if possible). Having a person to address the letter to is much better than simply “To Whom It May Concern.”
- The due date for the recommendation.
- The mailing address for a hard copy letter or the web address for a digital letter.
- The reference form, if applicable.
- Your personal statement that goes with the application, if applicable.
- The most recent copy of your resume/CV.
Please keep in mind that writing a good letter of recommendation takes time and the sooner you get me the above materials, the better.
Lastly – keep me updated as to the status of your application(s); if I am going to take the time to write a letter on your behalf, I am definitely interested in hearing about your progress.
