Instructions for requesting letters of recommendation from Dr. Wise
I am asked to write recommendation letters for many different types of positions for people I have known in various ways. I want to write you the strongest letter possible, but I need your help to do so. It is important that you follow these instructions carefully: failure to do so may result in a generic or delayed letter.
See below for requested information by application type. For all types, you must:
• Provide the requested items to me at least two weeks prior to the due date.
• Waive your right of access to the letter, if presented with that choice (typically in academic settings). Letters have little credibility if they are not confidential.
• In rare instances where the letter has to be mailed in via hard copy through the mail, leave an addressed and stamped envelope in my mailbox in Carolina Hall 205.
• Feel free to email me a day or two before the due date to confirm the letter has been sent.
• Send all of the requested information below in ONE email.
If you are applying for an internship, summer program, or job:
1) Tell me as much as you can about the position to which you are applying, including the skills requested in the position advertisement.
2) Write a paragraph describing why you are interested in the position and why you think you are a good candidate for the position.
3) Provide me with details on which class(es) you took with me, the semester that you took them (and/or dates that you worked for me), and a detail that you think is memorable from your performance in the class (or work).
4) Send me your most recent resume / c.v.
5) Provide specific instructions on letter submission, including the deadline, name & address to whom it should be addressed, exact name of the position/program, and website/address for submission.
If you are applying for graduate school:
1) Send me a web link to the department to which you are applying, as well as the advisor whom you are applying to work with (if applicable).
2) Write a paragraph describing why you are interested in that department, why you think you are a good fit there, and what you hope to gain from the graduate program.
3) Provide me with details on which class(es) you took with me, the semester that you took them (and/or dates that you worked for me), and a detail that you think is memorable from your performance in the class (or work).
4) Send me your most recent resume / c.v.
5) Provide specific instructions on letter submission, including the deadline, name & address to whom it should be addressed, and website/address for submission.
If you are applying for an award, fellowship, or scholarship:
1) Tell me as much as you can about the competition, including who it is aimed at, what the purpose of the award is, and what characteristics they are looking for in applicants. Send me a web link to the competition announcement.
2) Write a paragraph describing why you are applying for this fellowship/award, and why you think you are a good candidate / good fit for it.
3) Provide me with details on which class(es) you took with me, the semester that you took them (and/or dates that you worked for me), and a detail that you think is memorable from your performance in the class (or work).
4) Send me your most recent resume / c.v.
5) Provide specific instructions on letter submission, including the deadline, name & address to whom it should be addressed, exact name of the award/fellowship, and website/address for submission.