FAQ

If you’re an undergraduate/masters student I advise, or a Stanford Ph.D. student: You’re always welcome to reach out by email about anything.

Other students: Please check this page first—if your question isn’t covered, feel free to email me.

For Stanford students:

Q: Would you write me a coterm recommendation letter? Do we need to meet?

A: If you’ve taken one of my classes or we’ve worked together in some substantial way, I’m generally happy to write for you. I receive many coterm letter requests each year, so if our interactions have been limited, I’ll only be able to comment on your performance in the course (e.g., exams and homework). On the other hand, if you came to my office hours every week or put substantial work into your course project (for a 200- or 300-level class), I’ll be able to write a stronger letter. If you think I’m a good choice, just send me an email—no meeting required.

Please be sure to reach out at least one week before the deadline; I can’t write letters on shorter notice. Thank you for understanding!

Q: I’m an undergrad/masters student curious about research opportunities. Can I work with you?

A: Occasionally I work with undergrads and masters students on research, but you need to have taken one of my 200- or 300-level courses. Resesarch projects usually grow out of class projects that students devoted substantial energy to.

For non-Stanford students:

Q: I’d like to apply to Stanford’s Ph.D. program. Are you taking students? Can I meet with you about my application?

A: Thanks very much for your interest! Because of the volume of inquiries, I’m not able to respond individually to every prospective student, but I really appreciate your interest. At Stanford, admission decisions are made at the departmental level, not by individual faculty. My advice is to apply directly to the program. If you’re admitted, I’d be happy to talk with you about possible projects in my group.

Q: Do you have openings for postdocs?

A: I appreciate your interest! Please send me an email, especially highlighting your possible directions you’d like to pursue and how they connect with the work my group is doing.

Q: Can I do an internship in your lab?

A: Unfortunately, I don’t have internship positions (paid or unpaid) for students outside of Stanford, including high school students.