How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for a Research Internship Role

If you have been asked to write a letter of recommendation for a computer science research internship role, it can be a great opportunity to help someone advance their career. However, writing a strong letter of recommendation can be daunting, especially if you are unsure of what to include. Here are some key tips to help you write an effective letter of recommendation.

1. Open with a strong statement

Your opening statement should be strong and engaging, and it should clearly state your relationship with the candidate and how long you have known them. For example, you might start with something like, "I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [candidate's name] for the computer science research internship at [company/university]. I have known [candidate's name] for [number of years/length of time] and during this time, I have been consistently impressed by their [qualities/abilities]."

2. Provide specific details

It's important to provide specific details about the candidate's abilities and accomplishments that are relevant to the research internship role they are applying for. For instance, you might mention a project that the candidate worked on that demonstrates their research skills or an academic achievement that shows their proficiency in computer science. Here's an example:

"During [candidate's name]'s time as a research assistant in my lab, they made significant contributions to our project on [topic]. [Candidate's name] was responsible for [specific task] and their contributions were instrumental in [result]. Their ability to [skill] was particularly impressive and I have no doubt that they would excel in a research internship."

3. Highlight the candidate's strengths

When writing a letter of recommendation, it's important to focus on the candidate's strengths. You might want to mention qualities such as their ability to work independently, their analytical skills, or their attention to detail. Here's an example:

"[Candidate's name] is a highly analytical and detail-oriented individual, which makes them an excellent fit for a research internship. They are able to work independently and are skilled at identifying and solving problems. I have been particularly impressed by their ability to [skill], which is essential for success in a research role."

4. Be enthusiastic

Your letter of recommendation should be enthusiastic and positive. Use strong, positive language to convey your enthusiasm for the candidate and their abilities. Here's an example:

"I cannot speak highly enough of [candidate's name]'s abilities and potential. They are an outstanding candidate for the computer science research internship and I have no doubt that they will make significant contributions to [company/university]. [Candidate's name]'s passion for computer science is infectious and I am confident that they will excel in a research role."

5. Close with a strong statement

Your closing statement should be strong and confident, and it should reiterate your support for the candidate. Here's an example:

"I wholeheartedly recommend [candidate's name] for the computer science research internship at [company/university]. They are an exceptional candidate with a wealth of skills and experience that make them an ideal fit for the role. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me."

6. Emphasize their potential

In addition to highlighting the candidate's past accomplishments and qualifications, it's also important to emphasize their potential for future success. You might want to discuss how the candidate's skills and experience make them an ideal fit for the internship, and how they could contribute to the company or university's research efforts in the future. Here's an example:

"[Candidate's name] has a unique combination of skills and experience that make them an ideal candidate for the computer science research internship. Their ability to [skill] and [skill] would be a valuable asset to any research team. I am confident that [candidate's name] has the potential to make significant contributions to [company/university] and to the field of computer science as a whole."