How to Request Reference Letters

I frequently receive requests from students who want me to write recommendation/reference letters on their behalf for graduate school, scholarship, employment, and so forth. In some cases, I had few impressions about the student except that the student had taken my class. It will be to your benefit if I know more about you beyond your grade so I can write a concrete letter.

Please refrain from asking me for reference if:

You received a C or below grade from my class.
You were in my class but you were a passive classroom participant or we had little interaction.
We have not been in touch for at least 2 years - my memory fades and I may not be able to write a detailed letter for you.

If you decide that you would like me to be on your reference list, please bring a package that contains the following:

The required forms with your part filled out.
Official transcripts.
Resume.
Personal statement.
Addressed envelopes.
List of deadlines.
Detailed instruction of electronic submission of reference letter (if applicable).

Please limit your request to no more than 6 letters. Since I always have a long "to do" list, please allow a minimum of 2 weeks for me to write the letters.

I wish you success!