Letters of Recommendation

I am happy to write letters of recommendation for graduate school, fellowships, internships, business/law/medical school, and also to serve as a reference for students seeking full-time positions. 

Typically, letters are strongest for students who have done well in my class(es) or have worked in my lab as a research assistant.

In order for me to write the letters or agree to be a reference, I need to have advance notice and the following items at least three weeks before the first deadline:

• List of each school (and department) or fellowship you are applying to, and the deadline of the reference letter for each application.
• Statement of purpose/personal statement. If it isn’t ready, then I need to know if you are interested in an MS or PhD, whether you want a research assistantship or are just going to take classes, and what topic you would like to study (robotics, CFD, solid mechanics, etc).
• Transcript (unofficial is fine, such as what you can print from Esther)
• Reference form (if it exists) for each school/fellowship you are applying to.
• Addressed, stamped envelopes that will be sealed with my signature across the seal. Note that the letters should remain sealed, whether they are sent to you or directly to the school or fellowship office. Some schools/fellowships have online reference forms/letters, which is fine.

I encourage you to talk to me as you begin the application process. I would be happy to advise on the chances of getting into a particular school or getting a particular fellowship, or on programs that might be of interest to you.

I reserve the right to decline serving as a reference if I feel I don’t know you well enough to write an appropriate letter.  Letters are most effective when I know you personally through previous interactions.

MKO’M