Want a Letter of Recommendation from Me?
Even through I have retired from teaching I am happy to write the best possible recommendation for you. If you
think I might not know you well enough, or if you are unsure about how strong a letter I can write, you should ask
me. I’ll tell you honestly what I can write about you. In some cases I may suggest that you ask another professor
to write for you instead.
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If you would like me to write a recommendation for you, please put the following information in my mail box
at least three weeks before the due date (rushed letters are often less effective letters!)
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The full and exact name of the program, position or scholarship you are applying for.
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Any forms that must accompany the letter. Make sure that you fill in all appropriate sections and sign the
disclosure or non-disclosure statements on those forms.
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The full address of the destination of the letter (or your address if I am to send it to you). You DON’T need to
provide me with an envelope. I’ll use UPS stationery and envelopes.
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Your phone number and e-mail address so I can ask you questions and confirm that I have sent off the letter.
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The due date for the letter.
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A brief description of what the program or position is about, or what the scholarship is for. If applying to a
graduate program, tell me what type of program it is, what field, what degree you are seeking, etc.
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A brief statement about why you want what you are applying for. If applying for a program, tell me why you
selected that program and what you want to achieve there. If applying for a scholarship, tell me what you
want to do with the money.
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A resume in which you list your educational background, achievements, activities, work experience, travel
experience, and career goals.
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An unofficial transcript from UPS. You request these in the basement of Jones Hall (Jones 0113, x1301 or
on-line at http://www.pugetsound.edu/transcript.xml )
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If there are any mitigating circumstances that might help explain a low grade point average, write these
down.
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A brief list of any papers that you wrote in my courses or presentations that you gave. I can often work
discussion of these into my letter. Don’t assume that I remember them!
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A list of any other points that you would like me to work into the letter. Don’t be bashful here! If you want me
to mention something, tell me. If I think it is inappropriate I can always leave it out.
Thanks--Don
Last Updated: March 15, 2019