UCSB Course Directory for
Doug Bradley
Letters of Recommendation
I always look forward to writing letters of recommendation for exemplary students; however, a few words in advance here will eliminate misunderstandings and calibrate expectations. Before asking for a letter of recommendation, please read the following.
Elligibility for Letters of Recommendation
- Letters will be written only for students who have completed a course with me within the previous four years, and who have earned at least a B+ grade in the course.
- I must still have your course portfolio in my possession. Typically, I retain hardcopy portfolios for four (4) years, then shred them. If I no longer have your portfolio in my possession, I will be unable to write you a letter.
How to Request a Letter
- Because letters of recommendation require at minimum one hour to prepare, please allow me as much advance notice as possible—a minimum of eight (8) weeks is preferred. Please avoid asking me for a letter at the last minute before it is due, especially during the final weeks of a quarter when things are at their busiest.
- Make a written request via email; flag it as high-priority. (I receive scores of emails every day.) Include a link to the program(s) you are applying to, background information, an address or procedure for me to use for submitting your letter, and other helpful background information.
- If you're still enrolled at UCSB and/or live in the area, make an appointment or stop by during office hours so that we may discuss your letter in detail. If it's been a year or more since you were enrolled in my class, please bring an updated resume and (if you have one) a personal statement for the program you are applying to.
- Until your letter is submitted, it is your responsibility to ensure that it goes out on time. Feel free to remind and nag me until your letter is submitted; I don't mind. If you feel it is taking too long, you should request a letter from another instructor.
- As soon as possible, inform me of any changes in your application, including due dates, changes in address and/or contact person(s), dropped applications, or a need for additional copies to other programs. In short, keep me informed.
And finally...
- I would apreciate hearing from you after you receive word on your application. This is not 'mandatory,' merely a friendly request. I like to know how my students are doing.
- If you have any questions at all about letters of recommendation, ask me!
—N.D. Bradley