Advice on Letters of Recommendation

(Please read carefully BEFORE asking me for a letter!)

1. I will not agree to write you a letter unless I believe I can write you a good letter. I typically will only write the letter if you waive your right to see the letter. This maintains the credibility and validity of the process.

2. In general, I expect you to provide me with a resume/CV and your "personal statement." Depending on what you are applying for, submitting your responses to standard essays may be acceptable. The more information that you can provide me, the more likely that I can draft a letter that can truly capture your passions, interests, aptitudes, etc.

If there are any special circumstances, please let me know. Specifically, if you are applying for a special scholarship or unusual program, it is helpful for you to educate me on your special situation.

3. I advise many students, in many different venues. It generally helps for us to meet before I prepare a letter. You are the best judge of whether I know enough about you!

4. My schedule is generally very tight during the semester. Please allow sufficient time to plan for a meeting and for me to have time to write the letter.

5. I rarely involve an assistant in mailing/formatting letters. This means that additional letters DO represent additional work for me. Please be considerate in asking for second, third, etc. letters. As well, if you are asking me to mail a letter, please  give me a stamped/addressed envelope.

6. If you want to show thanks for my letter writing, a note or card is always appreciated. I am uncomfortable receiving any form of personal gift. If you want to make a donation to your favorite charity, that would be great.