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. 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!) The full and exact name of the program, position or scholarship you are applying for. 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. 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. Your phone number and e-mail address so I can ask you questions and confirm that I have sent off the letter. The due date for the letter. 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. 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. A resume in which you list your educational background, achievements, activities, work experience, travel experience, and career goals. 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 ) If there are any mitigating circumstances that might help explain a low grade point average, write these down. 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! 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