I am happy to write letters of recommendation for graduate school, fellowships, internships, business/law/medical school, and also to serve as a reference for students seeking full-time positions. 

Typically, my letters are strongest for students who have done well in my class(es) or have worked directly with me in a BIOE 400 project of other design project.

In order for me to write the letters or agree to be a reference, I need to have advance notice and the following items at least three weeks before the first deadline:

• List of each school (and department) or fellowship you are applying to, and the deadline of the reference letter for each application.
• Statement of purpose/personal statement. I need to know if you are interested in an MS or PhD, whether you want a research assistantship or are just going to take classes, and what topic you would like to study or research. I need the exact name of the department to which you are applying. 
• Transcript (unofficial is fine, such as what you can print from Esther)
• Reference form (if it exists) for each school/fellowship you are applying to.
• Addressed, stamped envelopes that will be sealed with my signature across the seal. Note that the letters should remain sealed, whether they are sent to you or directly to the school or fellowship office. Some schools/fellowships have online reference forms/letters, which is fine- when you are applying, they will send me an appropriate link to file the reference letter.
• After these things are prepared, I want to meet with you to discuss your career goals and plans- this helps me to write a personal and compelling reference letter.

I encourage you to talk to me as you begin the application process.

I reserve the right to decline serving as a reference if I feel I don’t know you well enough to write an appropriate letter.  Letters are most effective when I know you personally through previous interactions.

Dr. Oden