Recommendation Letters — Dr. Robert Lightfoot

1) Before you ask: choose wisely

A useful letter should go beyond your transcript. If we only had limited interaction and I can’t speak to your work, teamwork, growth, or character, the letter may be generic. I’m happy to be honest about whether I can write a strong letter for you.

2) Timeline

• Ask early: 3–4 weeks before the first deadline is ideal. I rarely decline, but strong letters take time.
• Reminders: As deadlines approach, polite reminders are welcome (see Policies).

3) What to send me (in one email)

Combine everything below into a single message. Attach files as PDFs when possible.

Your background

• How we know each other (courses, terms/years, roles such as TA/UGRA; include grades if applicable).
• A brief paragraph on your goals for the program/job/scholarship.
• Resume/CV (PDF) and unofficial transcript (PDF).
• Talking points: specific projects, teamwork/leadership (e.g., Scrum Master), research, service, obstacles overcome.
• Personal statement/draft essay (if required) — optional but helpful.
• (Optional) A draft letter with facts you’d like highlighted. I’ll revise to reflect my view.

4) For each application

• What you’re applying for and the selection criteria (quote or link text).
• Address block for formal letters (street, city, state, zip) and to whom to address, if specified.
• Submission method (portal link or email instructions). Note if I must answer rating forms.
• Deadline (date & time zone). Clarify if recommender deadline differs from the applicant deadline.
• Why this opportunity fits you and concrete reasons you’re a strong match.

5) Policies & expectations

• Confidentiality: I submit letters directly. Please waive your right to view the letter in graduate portals; otherwise, many readers discount the letter.
• Direct submission only: I do not provide letters to the applicant to forward.
• Professional accuracy: I will provide a candid, evidence‑based evaluation aligned to the selection criteria.
• Follow‑through: If a school or employer contacts me without prior discussion, I typically do not complete those requests.
• Reminders welcome: If a deadline is near, feel free to nudge me—your application matters, and timely reminders help.

6) One‑email template (copy, fill, and send)

Tip: Click the button to copy this template to your clipboard, then paste into an email.

Subject: Recommendation request – [Your Name] – [Program/Job] – [Deadline]

Howdy Dr. Lightfoot,

Thank you for considering a recommendation for me. Below is everything in one place.

How we know each other:
• Courses/roles with you (term/year): [e.g., CSCE 331 Fall 2024; TA for CSCE 120 Fall 2024]
• Grades (if applicable): [...]

My goals for this opportunity:
• [2–4 sentences tailored to the program/job]

Attachments (PDF preferred):
• Resume/CV
• Unofficial transcript
• Personal statement or essay (if required)
• (Optional) draft letter/talking points

For this specific application:
• Program/position: [...]
• Published selection criteria (copied text): [...]
• Address block for letter: [Street, City, State, Zip; add recipient name if given]
• Submission method: [portal link or instructions]
• Recommender deadline: [date, time, time zone]
• Why I’m a strong fit: [2–4 bullets]

Please use this phone number in portals that ask for it: 979-845-2611

Thank you, and I’ll follow up with reminders as the deadline approaches.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Email] | [Phone]
[LinkedIn/GitHub if relevant]

Copy template

7) FAQ

Can TAs ask for letters?

Yes. If you served as a TA/UGRA with me and I directly observed your work, I’m happy to consider writing for you. Include TA terms, duties, and notable impact.

What if I’m short on time?

Send the one‑email package immediately with a clear deadline, and highlight what’s missing. I’ll do my best, but advance notice yields stronger letters.

Will you share the letter with me?

No. I submit directly to preserve candid evaluations. Please waive access rights in application systems.

Contact

Last updated: September 10, 2025