Professorship of Political Economy (2025-09-27)

Who can request a letter of recommendation?

I am generally happy to write letters of recommendation for follow-up degrees, internships, jobs, and similar opportunities. But I cannot do this for everyone — a good letter requires that I know you and your work. At a minimum, you should have taken at least one seminar with me, attended regularly, and engaged with the course materials. In short: if you’d like me to write you a letter, I should be able to remember you and your contributions. This is the only way I can provide a letter that is specific and useful to you.

When should I ask and what information should I provide?

Please contact me a few weeks before the deadline—last-minute requests may not be possible.
When you reach out, include:

• the deadline and submission details,
• your CV,
• a short note on why you are applying and what you would like me to emphasize, and
• written work from my courses (and, if relevant, your thesis or other substantial work).

The better I know your work, the stronger and more specific the letter will be.

What can I expect from the letter?

If I agree to write you a letter, it means I have positive things to say about you. My letters are always honest and specific—I will highlight your strengths, but I won’t exaggerate or make claims I cannot fully support. Each letter is tailored to you and to the opportunity you are applying for, so it reflects your profile as accurately and helpfully as possible.