Letters of Recommendation Policy

I am happy to write letters of recommendation for:

• Students who have worked conscientiously on research projects in my lab for at least two semesters.

• Students who have worked conscientiously on their thesis project with me and produced a high-quality thesis.

• Students who have taken at least two of my courses and earned a strong grade in at least one of them. Please note that if you missed more than four class sessions in any given course, I will not be able to write a recommendation letter due to insufficient opportunities to observe your learning process consistently.

The quality of the letter matters. I need to know you well to write a strong, thoughtful, and compelling letter on your behalf. To support this process, I ask that you work with me to provide the necessary information in a timely and organized manner.

Steps and Guidelines:

1. Send your initial request at least three weeks before the deadline. Then, I will let you know whether I can write a letter for you at that time.

2. Once you hear from me that I can write a letter, fill out this letter of recommendation form first.

3. I only write letters for students who waive their right to access or review the letter.

4. If you are applying for multiple positions, provide the following information in a Google Doc or Google Sheet (share it with ygarriso@bates.edu), clearly organized:

   • Name of the institution, school, university, or college

   • Name of the program to which you are applying

   • Deadline for each program

5. Send me a reminder if you have not received confirmation that my letter has been submitted.

6. Keep me updated on your application process and final outcomes — I would love to celebrate your successes with you!