Letters of Recommendation from Dr. Hirsh

I am happy to support good students pursuing research experience, jobs, graduate school, and special academic programs and honors.  A typical letter of recommendation will describe your performance in the classroom, the laboratory, and/or research, how you interact with your peers, how you interact with the instructor and support staff, and a description of those personal attributes and characteristics that relate to the position or program that you are pursuing.  The better I know you, the easier it will be for me to write a meaningful and supportive letter.

Many students contact me for letters of recommendation.  So that I can accommodate as many students as possible, I require all students to follow these guidelines.  A student wishing to receive a letter of recommendation from Dr. Hirsh:

1)      has received a grade of "B" or better in one of his courses or is one of his advisees.

2)      contacts Dr. Hirsh in person or by e-mail at least one month before the application deadline to find out if he is able to support his/her application.

3)      has narrowed his/her search to no more than 6 schools or programs

4)      provides Dr. Hirsh with a single complete list of programs, deadlines, and mailing or web addresses, as appropriate.  Get form here.

5)      provides Dr. Hirsh with a resume and personal statement.

6)      meets with Dr. Hirsh during office hours for 15 minutes to discuss his/her goals in applying to the programs, graduate schools, etc.

Items 4), 5), and 6) should be taken care of at the same time, if possible.

NOTE: Confidentiality

All letters of recommendation are treated as confidential.  This means that you waive the right to see them so that I can write an honest and complete appraisal.  In general, all letters will be sent directly to the program requiring them, they will not be given to you.  That is why I request item 4) above.  If a program requires that letters of recommendation be mailed with the application, I will give you a letter in an addressed and sealed envelope with my signature across the seal.

My office: C-103, Science Complex

My e-mail: hirsh@tcnj.edu