UNIT OR UNIVERSITY LETTERHEAD AS APPROPRIATE

Sample Letter of Recommendation

Department of English and Philosophy

Dear [DEP selection committee]:

I am pleased to support [this candidate’s] acceptance for Advanced Civil Schooling. [He] was
my student in four courses during the 2003-2005 academic years: EP360 Eastern Art, EP361/382
Western Art Survey I/II, and EP333 Cultural Studies.

[He] was an outstanding student. He always performed in the upper 10% of the class on tests
and assignments and is easily one of the best writers I have had in my ten years at USMA. An
avid debater and leader in class discussion, [he] was fearless in voicing his opinions on
controversial or difficult topics. He welcomed dialogue with his classmates and while strong in
his opinions he was always willing to consider other points of view. [He] was equally dynamic
outside the classroom. Outgoing and personable, [he] was involved in the Creative Writing
Forum and planned several cadet trips to Boston and New York. He even planned a quick
weekend cadet trip to Rome, Italy. I accompanied [him] and the other cadets on this venture and
was most impressed with his leadership skills. He] kept the group organized and on task,
insuring that everyone kept to curfew times and exhibited appropriate behavior.

I am confident that [he] will make an exceptional instructor. He has a remarkable passion for
knowledge and a great intellectual curiosity that is essential for graduate work, as well as for
teaching. I recommend him without reservation and look forward to welcoming him back as a
colleague.

Thank you for your time. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information.

Most Sincerely,

[signature]

[printed name]
Associate Professor
Department of English and Philosophy
United States Military Academy
607 Cullum Rd.
West Point, NY 10996
[Phone number]
[email address]