Instructions for requesting a letter of recommendation

First, come to my office hours or send me an email requesting a letter of recommendation. This must be done 4-6 weeks prior to the first recommendation deadline!

Once I've agreed to write you a letter, please put together a google drive folder entitled YourName_Recommendations (e.g., "MaryLyon_Recommendations") that includes:

1. a google spreadsheet entitled "YourName Recommendations for GoalPosition" with a row for each application containing columns for:
   • program name (if there is a web site for the program, this should link to it)
   • submission deadline
   • submission process (such as: email, web site url, program will email me)
   • a column for me to check off when I've submitted it
   Rename the tab at the bottom that defaults to "Sheet1" with your first name, and sort the spreadsheet by earliest deadline!
2. your current resume
3. your current transcript (unless you are my advisee, in which case I can access it online)
4. a link to (or copy of) one project that you are most proud of, for example, a project you have done while taking a course with me
5. any additional materials (essays, personal statements) that would help me in writing

Once you have the initial google folder and spreadsheet set up, share it with me. Then, please email me when you are done with your materials so that I can write your letter (this should be at least 3 weeks prior to the earliest deadline). I will begin to write only after I have this email! If you add any applications after you have sent this email, you should update the spreadsheet and email me again.

Please send an email reminder one week before the due date and one day before the due date (if letter is not yet submitted).

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Site last updated on October 17, 2019.