Recommendation Letters for
Undergraduate & MGA Students

Every fall, I receive requests from current and former students to write and submit recommendation letters for admission to graduate schools and/or fellowships.

Typically, I agree to write reference letters for students who have a) taken my course or have been part of my research team for more than one academic year; b) met with me multiple times during office hours/outside of class, and c) demonstrated high academic performance.

Please keep in mind that not all requests are granted. I ask for students to provide additional information such as their academic transcript and CV/resume. I will let the student know within a couple of days whether I will be able to write the recommendation letter(s) on their behalf.

If I have agreed to write the letter, then the student should submit their application materials to me at least 4 weeks before the FIRST application deadline.

Last minute requests will be turned down!

Here are the list of materials I request from students:

1) An Excel document (a Google Doc with editing privileges) that includes the following information:

a) list of all official names of the university, program, fellowship, etc.
b) URL link with additional information about the program
c) application deadline

This document helps me keep track of multiple recommendation links I receive from universities/organizations and where I’ve submitted the letter.

2) The draft personal statement (e.g. the essay the student has written that explains the rationale for applying to the program).

3) List of key accomplishments in my course(s).

4) Different points to emphasize in the letter. This include information or facts that I don’t know about the student that are relevant for applications.

Important! Students should submit all documents in one email.

The final deadline to request a recommendation letter from me is November 15 (every year). Please plan accordingly!

I understand that some common applications are due in January/February for certain academic programs. Please reach out to me by November 15th indicating your intent to apply and I will take that into account when responding to your request.