920 Madison Street

Syracuse, NY 13210
September 27, 2015
Jeffrey M. Stanton, Ph. D.
Interim Dean
Syracuse University
School of Information Studies
343 Hinds Hall
Syracuse, NY 13210
Dear Dean Stanton:
When making the choice to come to Syracuse University, I was immediately drawn to the
Information Management and Technology program in the School of Information Studies. Since
the program is designed to prepare students for the fast-paced world of global commerce and
communication, I believe that I have been well prepared to enter the high-tech workforce. As I
near graduation and reflect on my experiences, however, I believe future students can benefit by
a requirement to take their programming course earlier in their studies. I believe this small
change would be beneficial to students and thereby enhance the reputation of the iSchool at
Syracuse University.
iSchool graduates have the tools to compete in any field they choose, but I believe their ability to
compete prior to graduation can be enhanced. Since the IM&T program focus is not rooted in
computer science but instead in information management, students are required to take only
one programming course prior to graduation with no requirement as to when this course must
be taken. When I interviewed for internships in the technology industry I quickly learned that
having programming skills can be crucial to obtaining an internship. Employers wanted their
interns to have some experience with a programming language and, unfortunately, I waited to
take this course.
Requiring students to take a programming course before their junior year would ensure they
have the skills employers are looking for and thereby increase the likelihood that the student
can secure a first-rate internship position. This will also give students confidence that they have
been aptly prepared to meet the challenges they face in the workplace.
I would be happy to meet with you to discuss this change. I can be reached at (555) 555-5555 or
via email at be@syr.edu. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Kyle Chambers