Recommendation letters
I'm glad to write recommendation letters—for graduate programmes, scholarships, jobs, or PhD applications. A letter is only worth something if it's specific, though, and I can only be specific if I actually know your work. Please read the conditions below before you ask.
Conditions
- Minimum: you have taken a course with me and performed well.
- Better: you have worked with me more closely—a thesis under my supervision, a research assistantship, or a substantial project—so I can speak to your abilities in detail.
If neither applies, a letter from me would be generic and won't help you; someone who knows your work will serve you far better.
How to request one
- Ask early. Reach out at least three to four weeks before your first deadline. Tell me the deadline.
- Send me a short package in one email:
- your cover letter for the position;
- your CV;
- a list of the programmes / positions with their deadlines and submission method (portal link, email, etc.);
- a few bullet points on what you'd like the letter to emphasize (skills, projects, a course paper or thesis you did with me);
- a transcript or the grade(s) you earned in my course.
Once we've agreed, I'll take it from there. If a form asks me to waive or confirm your right to view the letter, note that I write confidential letters.