I write many recommendation letters each year, but generally only write letters in cases where I can write a positive and meaningful recommendation. It is best if you have already completed at least one full course with me before requesting a recommendation letter. If you have only been in my class for part of a semester, it typically makes more sense to ask a faculty member who knows you better and can speak more broadly about your academic performance. 

I generally ask for at least 3 weeks notice before a new recommendation letter is due. If you are asking me for a letter only a week in advance, I hope you know me well and/ or I have already written a recommendation letter on your behalf for another opportunity, as it takes less time to update an old letter than it does to write a completely new one. 

In order to write a letter that is as strong and detailed as possible, and is thus most helpful for your application, please email me the following in one email:

  1. A list of opportunities/ deadlines and where/ how the letter should be submitted (ie, will I receive an online prompt? Do I need to send an email to someone?)
  2. Why you want to participate in this position or program and what you hope to get out of it?
  3. Your GPA and unofficial transcript
  4. A reminder of the courses you took with me, when (which year/semester), which grade you received in my classes, two or three experiences that stick with you from these courses, and examples of the specific assignments or projects you completed.
  5. Prior professional experience and extracurricular activities, if relevant to the position and your responsibilities.
  6. A copy of your resume
  7. Specific description and/ or website of the opportunity for which you are applying.

I always notify students when I submit the letters. If I agree to write a letter for you, I will add the date to my calendar, and often submit letters close to the deadline. If you have not heard from me two days before the deadline, please do not hesitate to remind me, but you do not need to remind me before then.

Please note that I only write letters for specific opportunities and following best practices for recommendations, I do not provide letters directly to students. The only exception to this policy would be if an organization asks for a hard copy of the letter, in which case they typically ask that the envelope be sealed and the flap signed.

Finally, I am always interested to hear about the outcome of your applications and what you decide to do, so please keep me posted!