Conditions for writing a letter:

I am happy to write letters of recommendation. The following policies may seem a bit harsh, but it is my goal to make sure that students receive strong letters. If you would like me to write a letter, try taking a small course with me. If you are in a big course, then make sure to attend office with some regularity. It is important that your letter not be generic. An alternative is to have your TA write a letter of recommendation. I will then consider modifying the letter and signing or co-signing it. If you received less than a B+, I can probably only write a generic letter that describes the course and that you were enrolled in it. Depending on where you are applying, a generic letter might not be of much help.

Please note that I will only write letters of recommendation with 10 or more days notice. The letters will be confidential. I will not release a letter to student. I will sign, seal, and mail the letter directly to the school or funding agency.

To request a letter, you must provide me with the following information:

1.   A concise cover letter that provides a brief overview. It should include:

• Your educational and career objectives.

• An overview of your academic record.

• Explain why you believe you are a good fit for the fellowship, job, or school to which you are applying.

• Provide two deadlines for me: (1) the preferred deadline and (2) the drop-dead date by which it must be mailed. Write these on the top-right corner.

• Make sure I have your phone number or email address in case I have questions. 

2.   An official or unofficial transcript. Highlight or mark the classes that you took with me.
3.   Copies of papers or exams from any class that you have taken from me. You will not get these materials back. Keep copies incase you need to request a letter in the future.
4.   Information on the school, fellowship, or business, so that I know my audience. (Not necessary for LSAT.)
5   Fill out any forms that I have to send with your application (including my name, address, etc).  

6. Provide me with school or fellowship's address. Do not worry about stamps.

7.   Sign your confidential consent form – I will not submit the letter unless this is signed. If your school or fellowship does not provide you with a form (which they should), then use this one. Click here.
8. E-mail me two days before the drop-dead deadline to make sure that I have mailed your letter.

See the BIO/ABOUT page for contact information.