Letters of Recommendation

If you'd like a letter of recommendation from me, please reach out and ask. Letters as a part of a PhD or NSF Fellowship can take some time and I'd want to sit down and talk with you first. If you are applying solely for Master's degrees, reaching out by email is usually all that's needed.

Do be aware, if you are applying to more than 4 schools, starting in 2024 I will need you to use a letter of recommendation service, Interfolio by preference, but anything reasonable is fine.

Once I've agreed to write you a letter of recommendation I'll need some materials from you. I'd like you to send me an email that has your name and the word "recommendation" in the subject and which includes the following:

• A list of schools you'll be applying to. For each school list:
  • What program you are applying to (PhD in CS, MS in EE, MBA, etc.).
  • When their deadlines are.
• In the email itself clearly indicate when the first letter is due.
• List the classes I've had you in and what semesters (if applicable).
• Attach a copy of your transcript (unofficial), a copy of your resume, a recent picture of yourself (I'm often horrible with names, but generally good with faces so sometimes I need this) and (if you have it) a statement of purpose.
• If this is for an NSF fellowship or some other scholarship/award, include all materials you are submitting for that award. (Statement of purpose, statement of research, etc.)
• If the class had a major project (100, 373, 452, 470) send me a copy of your report or link to the project web page. If you can't do that, at least provide a summary.
• If one or more of the letters can't be submitted electronically, make that very clear.
  • For each that need to be mailed I'll need a stamped and addressed envelope.

I very much prefer to do all the letters at once (less important if you are using Interfolio). I realize that isn't always possible, but it does help me if you don't spread them out too much.

You'll need to give me at least 2 weeks lead time, though 3 or 4 is better. I'll let you know when I think I've gotten all the recommendations out. Feel free to ping me however if deadlines are looming.