dartmouth mem essay

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Home | Graduate | MEM

Master of Engineering Management

The business of technology innovation takes more than good ideas—it takes technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to communicate and collaborate across diverse teams. Dartmouth's Master of Engineering Management (MEM) integrates the study and practice of engineering and management to develop outstanding leaders in our tech-driven world.

MEM Admissions Info

More MEM Info

MEM Courses & Program Options
MEM Graduate Outcomes
MEM Career Advantage & Networking
MEM Community
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How to Apply

Overview Video

The dartmouth mem.

Hear from MEM Faculty Director Vikrant Vaze and MEM Executive Director Geoffrey Parker about the benefits of a Dartmouth MEM degree and what makes the program different.

Graduate Outcomes

What can you do with an mem.

Funding Your Education

From need-based aid to fellowships..

Ready to Learn More?

Join an info session for more about the program..

The Dartmouth Difference

A diverse group of students, dressed in business attire, is posing for a photo in front of a brick building, representing a cohort from an Dartmouth MEM focused on blending technical and business education.

Endless Possibilities

Dartmouth MEM students the enjoy flexibility to design their own program or specialize in one of three focus areas to gain the technical and business acumen necessary for leadership in a variety of sectors. Within a close-knit cohort (average size is 55), you'll gain individualized attention from world-class Thayer and Tuck faculty, support from assigned mentors , and unparalleled access to internships and job resources .

MEM Program Options

Real-World Experience

As a Dartmouth MEM student, your learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. You'll complete industry-sponsored internships to apply what you've learned to real-life challenges at companies ranging from early start-ups to multi-national corporations. You'll manage projects that develop new technologies or transform business practices.

MEM Internships

Community Like No Other

Live, work, and play with some of the best and brightest from around the world, and enjoy being part of a tight-knit community. Dartmouth's MEM program is purposefully small, with faculty, staff, fellow students, and a global network of alumni and mentors ready to support you through your time at Dartmouth and beyond.

MEM Community & Student Life

average cohort size

Each MEM cohort is like its own family: small, personal, and tight-knit.

women in MEM

More than half of Dartmouth MEM students identify as female.

average starting salary

With 98% job placement, MEM graduates command high starting salaries.

The Dartmouth MEM degree program is a founding member of the ‍Master of Engineering Management Programs Consortium (MEMPC) .

What attracted me to Dartmouth was the smaller cohort size; this enabled me to connect more closely with my peers. I particularly enjoy collaborating with a diverse group of people from interdisciplinary backgrounds and learning from them. Learning from faculty who are experts in their field is truly exhilarating.

— Vaishnavi Anil Th'24, Vice President of MEM Student Council

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Dartmouth MeM Sample essays & LORs

Free samples from past clients, dartmouth mem application essay 2023-24.

The following two essays are required. If possible, keep your essay(s) to a maximum of two pages.

A statement of purpose describing your interests and career goals and the reasons you wish to pursue graduate studies at Thayer

An essay specific to the MEM program

Optional Essay: Dartmouth Engineering is committed to a climate that acknowledges and embraces diversity of perspectives and backgrounds, supporting a culture that fosters inclusion and actively pursues equity. In this optional essay, applicants are encouraged to share how their personal perspectives and unique life experiences will contribute to Dartmouth and the Dartmouth Engineering community.

Dartmouth Winning Sample Essay-1

Statement of purpose.

I am thrilled to apply for the Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program at Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College. My career journey, as reflected in my resume, has been a testament to my passion for technology, leadership, and innovation. Growing up in a rural area with limited access to quality education, I understood the transformative power of technology and the importance of effective management in driving societal progress. This understanding fuels my desire to pursue graduate studies at Thayer and equip myself with the skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in engineering management.

Throughout my tenure as a Quality Assurance Analyst at Tata Consultancy Services, I have been deeply involved in ensuring the quality and efficiency of software applications. My responsibilities included collaborating closely with product teams, identifying vulnerabilities, and spearheading initiatives to enhance application performance. One of my proudest achievements during this time was leading the delivery of a user application with the latest updates, utilizing Quick Response (QR) code technology to reduce download time significantly. This experience honed my technical skills and gave me valuable insights into project management and stakeholder engagement.

In addition to my technical roles, I have been actively involved in initiatives to empower rural students and foster career development. Co-founding a non-profit organization dedicated to providing career guidance to students from underserved communities has been an enriching experience. Through this initiative, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of mentorship and guidance in shaping young minds and opening doors to new opportunities.

Reflecting on my experiences and aspirations, I am particularly drawn to the MEM program at Thayer for its interdisciplinary curriculum and emphasis on practical learning. The opportunity to delve deeper into data analytics, product management, and entrepreneurship aligns perfectly with my career goals and interests. I am eager to leverage further Thayer’s renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry partnerships to develop my skills and expertise in these domains.

Moreover, I am excited about immersing myself in Thayer’s vibrant and inclusive community. The opportunity to collaborate with talented peers, engage in meaningful discussions, and learn from industry leaders is invaluable. I am confident that the MEM program’s collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment will foster my growth as a leader and innovator.

In conclusion, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the MEM program at Thayer and contribute to its legacy of excellence in engineering management education. I am committed to leveraging my skills, experiences, and passion for technology to positively impact the field and drive innovation for societal good. With Thayer’s support, I am confident that I can achieve my goals and fulfil my potential as a leader in engineering management.

Considering my experiences and aspirations outlined in my resume, I am particularly drawn to the MEM program at Thayer School of Engineering for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the program’s interdisciplinary approach perfectly complements my diverse skill set and interests, allowing me to understand engineering management principles and practices better.

My journey as a Quality Assurance Analyst at Tata Consultancy Services has equipped me with a solid foundation in software engineering, project management, and stakeholder engagement. Leading initiatives to enhance application performance, automate processes, and streamline workflows has honed my technical skills and instilled in me a passion for leveraging technology to drive innovation.

Furthermore, my involvement in co-founding a non-profit organization dedicated to providing career guidance to rural students has underscored the importance of effective leadership, mentorship, and community engagement. I am excited about the MEM program’s emphasis on leadership development and its focus on equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead teams and drive organizational change.

Moreover, I am impressed by Thayer’s commitment to experiential learning and its strong industry partnerships. Engaging in hands-on projects, collaborating with industry leaders, and gaining real-world experience is invaluable. I am eager to apply my skills and knowledge to tackle complex challenges, develop innovative solutions, and make a meaningful impact.

The MEM program’s focus on data analytics, product management, and entrepreneurship resonates strongly with my career aspirations and interests. I am eager to delve deeper into these areas, learn from renowned faculty, and gain insights from industry experts. I am confident that the MEM program’s rigorous curriculum and practical approach will prepare me to excel in my chosen field and achieve my career goals.

In conclusion, I am excited about the opportunity to join the MEM program at Thayer and embark on a transformative journey of growth and discovery. I am committed to leveraging my skills, experiences, and passion for technology to make a positive impact in the field of engineering management. With Thayer’s support, I can achieve my goals and contribute meaningfully to the MEM community.

Optional Essay

Dartmouth Engineering is committed to a climate that acknowledges and embraces diversity of perspectives and backgrounds, supporting a culture that fosters inclusion and actively pursues equity. In this optional essay, applicants are encouraged to share how their perspectives and unique life experiences will contribute to Dartmouth and the Dartmouth Engineering community.

Diversity is more than just a buzzword; it is the cornerstone of innovation, progress, and societal advancement. As someone who has traversed diverse landscapes geographically and culturally, I bring a unique perspective and life experiences that will enrich the Dartmouth Engineering community.

Growing up in a multicultural environment, I learned early on the value of embracing different perspectives and celebrating diversity. My family’s background spans continents, and from a young age, I was exposed to many languages, traditions, and customs. This upbringing instilled a deep respect for cultural diversity and a curiosity to learn from people with varying backgrounds and experiences.

Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have sought opportunities to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and collaborate on projects that foster inclusivity and equity. As a member of various student organizations and community initiatives, I have advocated for diversity and inclusion, organizing events celebrating multiculturalism and raising awareness about social issues.

Moreover, my professional experiences have further reinforced the importance of diversity in driving innovation and problem-solving. Working in multinational teams, I have witnessed firsthand the power of bringing together individuals with diverse skill sets, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds. These experiences have shaped my approach to collaboration, encouraging me to seek diverse viewpoints and leverage them to develop creative solutions to complex challenges.

In addition to cultural diversity, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my personal journey and life experiences. As someone who has overcome adversity and faced obstacles, I understand the importance of resilience, perseverance, and empathy. These qualities have enabled me to navigate challenging situations, adapt to new environments, and become stronger and more resilient.

Furthermore, my commitment to diversity extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it encompasses a deep-seated belief in the power of education and empowerment to effect positive change. As a future member of the Dartmouth Engineering community, I am committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

In conclusion, my perspectives and unique life experiences have equipped me with a deep appreciation for diversity and a passion for fostering inclusivity and equity. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Dartmouth Engineering community, leveraging my diverse background and experiences to enrich the learning environment and drive positive change. Together, we can create a community where diversity is acknowledged and celebrated, and individuals from all walks of life can thrive and succeed.

Dartmouth Winning Sample Essay-2

From the IT corridors of TCG Digital to strategic client meetings, my professional journey as a Technical Team Lead has been marked by a passion for leveraging technology to solve complex problems. My core interest lies in the intersection of technology and business, particularly in using data science and machine learning to enhance product development and strategic decision-making. As I look to the future, my career goal is to become a Chief Product Officer, where I can lead innovative technology initiatives that drive business growth and significantly impact the industry.

Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth is renowned for its pioneering interdisciplinary approach and commitment to using engineering to address global challenges. The Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program at Thayer offers a unique blend of rigorous engineering training and management principles that align perfectly with my career aspirations. This program promises to deepen my technical expertise and enhance my leadership and strategic capabilities through courses like Technology Project Management and Operations Strategy, which are vital for my progression to a C-level executive role.

Additionally, Dartmouth’s collaborative environment, characterized by small class sizes and close faculty interactions, will provide a personalized educational experience. This setting is ideal for cultivating the leadership qualities necessary for managing cross-functional teams and spearheading innovative projects. Furthermore, Thayer’s strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning through project-based courses will allow me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, preparing me for the complex challenges I will face in the tech industry.

I decided to apply to Thayer because I want to be part of a spirited community that challenges conventional thinking and values creativity and innovation. The MEM program’s focus on developing leaders who can think critically and act decisively in high-pressure environments resonates with my personal and professional experiences. Moreover, Dartmouth’s global alumni network and strong industry connections offer an exceptional platform for career development and networking opportunities, which are crucial for achieving my long-term goals.

In conclusion, Thayer’s MEM program represents the ideal environment to refine my skills, expand my knowledge, and prepare to lead at the forefront of technological advancement. I am eager to contribute my diverse experiences and perspectives to the Dartmouth community, and I am confident that my time at Thayer will be transformative personally and professionally.

The Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program at Thayer School of Engineering offers a distinctive blend of engineering and management that perfectly aligns with my career trajectory from a technical team leader to an envisioned role as a Chief Product Officer. Thayer’s approach to engineering management education emphasizes technical proficiency and strategic and leadership skills essential for overseeing complex technological projects and leading innovative teams.

Alignment with Professional Aspirations

As a technical team lead at TCG Digital, I’ve been at the helm of developing and implementing data-driven solutions that significantly improved operational efficiencies and client satisfaction. However, to navigate the transition from a technical expert to a technology leader, I need to deepen my understanding of core management principles tailored to the engineering context.

Thayer’s MEM program, with its rigorous coursework in operations strategy, project management, and decision science, is structured to bridge this gap. The program’s project-based learning and the capstone project provide a real-world application of classroom theories, which is critical for my development as an engineer who can manage and lead in an increasingly complex and evolving tech landscape.

Unique Offerings of Thayer’s MEM

Thayer’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning, with opportunities to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, will enrich my perspective and enhance my problem-solving skills. The program’s emphasis on leadership development, combined with technical expertise, prepares graduates for top-tier leadership roles by cultivating a holistic understanding of project management’s technological and business aspects. This holistic approach is critical in the tech industry, where understanding cross-functional dynamics and managing interdisciplinary teams are key to innovation and success.

Furthermore, the entrepreneurial spirit fostered at Thayer is particularly compelling to me. The MEM program’s close ties with Dartmouth’s entrepreneurial network, resources like the Magnuson Center for Entrepreneurship, and events such as the Pitch competition provide a platform to learn and apply entrepreneurial thinking to technology management. These resources are invaluable for anyone looking to lead technology ventures or drive innovation within established companies.

Joining the MEM program at Thayer represents more than just an academic pursuit; it is a strategic step toward becoming a global leader in technology management. The blend of a relentless engineering management curriculum and hands-on project experience will equip me with the skills necessary to address complex challenges and lead innovative solutions in the technology sector. I am eager to immerse myself in Thayer’s vibrant academic community, contribute my diverse experiences, and grow as a leader poised to impact the tech world significantly. The MEM at Thayer is not just an education; it’s the key to unlocking my potential to transform technology management practices.

Growing up in a culturally rich but economically diverse nation like India, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of diversity and the importance of inclusive practices. My father’s job required us to move frequently, exposing me to various Indian cultures, languages, and traditions.

Each relocation taught me to quickly adapt to new environments, respect diverse viewpoints, and integrate into varied social settings. This upbringing instilled in me a profound appreciation for diversity, not just as a cultural concept but as a critical component of problem-solving and innovation.

At Dartmouth Engineering, I am excited to bring this deep-seated understanding of and appreciation for cultural diversity. I believe that engineering solutions should be as diverse as the problems they aim to solve, and this can only be achieved through a collective effort from individuals with diverse perspectives. My experiences have equipped me to contribute uniquely to team projects, classroom discussions, and community activities, ensuring that multiple viewpoints are considered and respected.

Furthermore, during my tenure as the President of the Agricultural Engineering Society at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, I led initiatives to bridge the gap between technology and rural agricultural practices. This role enhanced my leadership skills and deepened my commitment to using technology as a tool for social equity. I plan to bring this passion for community-focused technology solutions to Dartmouth, collaborating with peers to develop projects that advance technological frontiers and address social disparities.

I am particularly inspired by Dartmouth Engineering’s commitment to creating a culture that actively pursues equity. My professional and personal experiences have taught me the importance of creating spaces where all voices are heard and valued, particularly those that are underrepresented. I aim to engage actively in Dartmouth’s initiatives like Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), contributing to discussions on reducing barriers and enhancing support for women and minorities in STEM fields.

By sharing my background and experiences, I aim to enrich the Dartmouth Engineering community, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions and where every member feels valued and empowered. I aim to grow as an engineer and make Dartmouth a beacon of diversity and inclusion in the engineering academic community. Through mutual learning and shared experiences, I am committed to actively participating in Dartmouth’s journey toward a more inclusive and equitable academic environment.

Client Testimonials

Dartmouth mem letter of recommendations 2023-24.

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required, which must be completed and submitted online directly by your recommender. Please have your recommenders complete the evaluation form which will be emailed to them and submit a signed letter on their official institutional letterhead. If your recommender’s company or institution has a policy against letterhead, they must provide a copy of this policy with the recommendation letter.

Letters of recommendation should ideally come from your college professors using their official school email address. Applicants with work or military experience or who are currently in another graduate program should submit a recommendation from their immediate supervisor, a current or former employer, or someone who knows them well through some other professional or community activity.

MEM Recommendation Letters (Free Samples & successful Examples)

Sample letter of Recommendation for masters application from professor

How do you know the applicant? How long have you known them for?

I am the Dean and Professor at Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology in Rohini, India. I have known Pavani since her first semester, where she was in my “Fundamentals of Computing” class.

I have had multiple opportunities to interact with Pavani as she was leading the student activities for her batch and was also working on the “Automated Stock Trading algorithm” project as a part of the curriculum, under my guidance.

What would you say are the applicant’s key strengths and talents?

One of Pavani’s primary strengths is her ability to lead a team even in uncertain situations. In her final year, Pavani was the Organizing Committee Member of the International Conference. Since it was the first conference of its kind, there were no previous benchmarks or processes in place. Right from marketing, outreach events, finding vendors for event management, to logistics—everything had to be figured out from scratch. The budget was also crunched, which further did not help the situation.

Pavani went beyond her responsibilities and took the lead on the project. She worked with other team members, discussed with them, and charted a plan. She delegated responsibilities to fellow peers and also guided them on their tasks. There were also conflicts in the team and unforeseen problems. One of the vendors cancelled the contract two days before the conference. Pavani immediately reached out to other vendors through personal contacts and engaged the team with a calm mind and got things done. Thanks to Pavani, the conference was a huge success with over 60 participants from multiple countries. As a result, 3 projects were selected and funded by our institution. The conference is now recognized internationally and is set to take place again next year in February.

Pavani also demonstrated her leadership capabilities while working on a project under my guidance. The project was focused on building automated stock trading algorithms that managed to maximize cumulative profit. Although she did not come from a finance background, Pavani quickly learned the basic concepts. She also brought her team members onboard by coaching them and teaching how the stock market works. With the team’s support, Pavani was able to build a functioning algorithm that got published in a reputed journal, “Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research”. I believe Pavani is the kind of candidate who can take ownership and deliver things with minimal guidance.

In which areas of development has the applicant progressed the most in the time you’ve known them?

Initially, when I met Pavani, she was a shy person who was not confident to lead a team. Even though she might have brilliant ideas, she used to keep them to herself and not put them forward. As a consequence of being shy, she even preferred to work alone rather than in teams. She needed a little encouragement to help break her out of her shell. Slowly, she started putting forth her ideas. As those ideas were adopted by her teammates, she started gaining confidence. She quickly learned to plan, lead, and delegate a team effectively.

Pavani grew to participate in competitions, representing the college on a national level. Seeing her progress into an effective leader, I appointed Pavani as the organizational head of an international conference that took place on our campus in February 2020, as mentioned above.

Pavani also progressed tremendously in her academics, from a 7 CGPA in the 1st semester to a 9 CGPA in later semesters. Her performance has progressed not just in theory but practical as well. She was part of 2 research papers that were published in reputable journals.

Another area that Pavani needs to develop is to be open and listen to others’ opinions. Sometimes, Pavani is quite stubborn when it comes to her plans and wants to execute them the way she has planned them. Therefore, she is at times not open to new viewpoints or any suggestions to the plan she came up with. This arises from her own perceptions that changing plans will lead to chaos and hence poor performance. In one of our sessions, I coached her and made her understand that she alone cannot control all things and she alone cannot achieve great things. She understood the importance of teamwork and has been trying to work it out. She is now a bit more open to new ideas and opinions. I believe she will learn these qualities over time and experience.

In what ways might the applicant contribute to the Masters in Engineering Management Program?

Pavani has always volunteered and stepped up to lead student activities. I have no doubt that she would continue to do the same in a Master’s in Engineering Management program. With her experience in project management and leadership, she will be a great asset in student-run activities and events.

Apart from that, I think Pavani is a fast learner who is always enthusiastic to teach her fellow batchmates. She has held multiple tutor sessions for juniors and fellow batchmates on tough courses. She will contribute to the class by bringing her technical expertise and practical experience during discussions and also coaching them on relatively tough concepts.

Is MEM Program a right fit for the candidate right now?

This course would be the natural academic evolution for her. On multiple occasions, Pavani has expressed her interest in taking up roles that are at the intersection of engineering and management. Engineering has given her a strong foundation in technical and analytical skills. However, she needs the academic experience and learning about management principles. More importantly, a MEM program will also groom her leadership abilities and impart holistic thinking capabilities. Pavani has great potential to learn and succeed, and I believe a MEM will be a step in the right direction towards achieving her goals.

Recommendation Letter For Masters - - Ameerkhatri.com

Please provide a brief description of your interaction with the applicant and, if applicable, the applicant’s role in your organization. (50 words)

I am the project manager, and Vinay is part of my team as a Senior Business Analyst for the past two years. I directly oversee his work and align with him on a weekly basis to understand the project requirements, roadmap discussions, and staffing plan for his team.

Describe your first-hand knowledge of the candidate’s work on a software or product development project. Describe the candidate’s role on the project and how their performance on the project compared with other well-qualified individuals in similar roles. (200-500 words)

I believe Vinay have good command over product development process and projects. To quote an instance, I was a project manager for one of the Healthcare clients. The client project involved heavy product development. I brought Vinay onto this project as a senior Business analyst to shoulder some of the project roadmap and team collaboration-related responsibilities.

Before he joined, we were faced with a problem. The developers were working in silos, as there was no Business Analyst who gave proper guidance and a roadmap on what to work on, where to start, and the project lacked a proper structure. Also, the client was proposing new changes and had new requests every week, so the scope kept on changing, and the team was struggling.

After joining as a Business Analyst, Vinay brought himself up to speed on the application, use cases, and what the client asked. He started doing user research, created empathy maps, drafted jobs to be done, and finally added all client requests and user stories to the product backlog.

He took the lead in coordinating with the technical lead to understand the technical aspects and architecture of the product. He started adding product backlog of both functional and technical user stories, with the help of the tech lead and added around 130 user stories. He made sure the team followed Agile practices. Finally, within a short period of 3 weeks, the team has a roadmap, stories to work on, and proper practices to follow.

As a result, we delivered the product with a UI improvement of 45% based on user feedback. And Vinay received appreciation from the client for his exceptional work. We also got a new project from the client for one of the pain points Vinay found to develop an application on Data security to safeguard patient data using blockchain technology.

Vinay’s performance impressed the Client Leadership Team (CLT) with how he worked with the team, bringing a structured format to the team, creating a product roadmap, Client communication, and Stakeholder management. As a result, we added him as a part of (CLT). He is one of the best BAs I have ever worked with.

More generally, provide your insights as to whether this candidate has promise to be an effective engineering manager. Include specific examples of times when they demonstrated skills and/or behaviors that would lead to their success in that role. (200-500 words)

I think Vinay has the potential to be a good product manager because, after joining the team as a Business Analyst, Vinay proposed doing a Discovery phase with the client. I let him take the lead on this and told him that he can go ahead if he can convince the client.

He observed it had been 8 years since we did the last discovery workshop. He pitched his idea to the Client and proposed a Discovery phase where his team and he can do a SWOT analysis for the project, prepare a roadmap, and a template containing all the tasks necessary for the workshop. The client really liked the idea and aligned on doing a Discovery workshop for a week.

Once the workshop started, Vinay ensured everyone was taking part completely and clarifying any doubts. He also ensured that everyone (Clients, Developers, designers, Salespeople, QAs) was thinking and contributing to the tasks based on their viewpoints. He also reminds everyone occasionally about empathizing with users while discussing or writing their points. As a result, the workshop was successful, and we got 4 new problem statements the client is currently facing; we got approval for 3 of them to start building the product as a part of new engagement and revenue of $3 Million.

He showcased effective communication skills during the workshop, motivating and inspiring everyone. He also brought the emotional intelligence and empathy part, where he could read the situation and influence everyone to make everyone empathize more with users in the workshop tactfully. One of the significant skills of any product manager is communicating effectively, interpersonal skills, and empathy. Vinay has all these skills to be an effective Product Manager.

Would you work with this candidate again? If not, why? (50 words)

Yes, If he desires to rejoin after completing his Master’s in product management.

What hesitations or concerns to have you have about recommending this person to the MSPM Program? (50 words)

Based Letters of Recommendation Guide for engineerign management aspirants, here are five do’s and don’ts tailored for candidates applying to a Master’s in Engineering Management program:

Do’s: 1. Choose Recommenders Who Understand Your Technical and Managerial Abilities: – **Do** select recommenders who can provide detailed and specific examples of your technical expertise and managerial skills. Ideal recommenders include current or former supervisors who have directly observed your engineering projects and leadership roles. – Example: Your direct manager on a project where you led a team of engineers to develop a new product or improve an existing process.

2. Provide Comprehensive Background Information: – **Do** give your recommenders a comprehensive overview of your achievements and context for your contributions. Highlight key projects, leadership roles, and innovative solutions you have implemented. – Example: Share a list of projects where you applied engineering principles to solve complex problems, managed project timelines, and coordinated cross-functional teams.

3. Meet and Discuss Specifics: – **Do** meet with your recommenders to discuss your goals for the Master’s in Engineering Management, why you chose specific programs, and how the degree aligns with your career aspirations. This helps them tailor their letters to your specific goals and the program’s focus. – Example: Explain how the program’s curriculum and faculty will help you achieve your career goals in technical leadership or project management.

4. Ensure Specific, Anecdote-Driven Letters: – **Do** encourage your recommenders to use specific anecdotes that highlight your technical and managerial strengths. Real-life examples provide credibility and illustrate your skills effectively. – Example: Ask them to describe a project where you led the team, detailing your role, the challenges faced, and how your leadership contributed to the project’s success.

5. Set Early Personal Deadlines: – **Do** set early personal deadlines for your recommenders to ensure they complete their letters well before the application deadlines. This provides a buffer period for follow-ups if needed. – Example: If your application is due on January 1st, ask your recommenders to submit their letters by December 1st to avoid last-minute issues.

Don’ts: 1. Avoid High-Ranking but Unfamiliar Recommenders: – **Don’t** choose recommenders based solely on their title if they are not familiar with your work. Letters from high-ranking individuals who cannot provide detailed insights will be less effective. – Example: Avoid asking the CEO of your company unless they have directly worked with you and can provide specific examples of your contributions.

2. Don’t Write the Letter Yourself: – **Don’t** write the recommendation letter yourself, even if a recommender offers to sign it. Admissions committees can detect self-written letters, which can harm your credibility. – Example: If a recommender suggests this, politely decline and offer to provide them with detailed information to help them write the letter themselves.

3. Avoid Generic Content: – **Don’t** let your recommenders submit generic letters that could apply to anyone. Generic praise without specific examples will not make your application stand out. – Example: Ensure your recommenders avoid statements like “X is a great engineer” without context or supporting evidence.

4. Don’t Overlook Specific Instructions: – **Don’t** ignore the specific instructions and questions provided by each school. Different programs may have different requirements for recommendation letters. – Example: Make sure your recommenders address each question posed by the school’s recommendation form and follow any formatting or submission guidelines provided.

5. Avoid Subordinates as Recommenders: – **Don’t** ask subordinates to write your recommendation letters. Their perspective might not carry the same weight and could be seen as less objective. – Example: Recommendations should come from individuals in supervisory or client roles who can objectively evaluate your performance and potential.

These tailored do’s and don’ts will help ensure that your recommendation letters are strong, relevant, and supportive of your application to a Master’s in Engineering Management program.

Recommendation letter Template tailored for candidates applying to a Master’s in Engineering Management program:

Admissions Committee [Masters in Engineering Management Program Name] [University Name] [University Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Candidate’s Name] for your [Master’s in Engineering Management program] at [University Name]. I have known [Candidate’s Name] for [duration] in my capacity as [Recommender’s Title] at [Company Name], where I have had the privilege of supervising [him/her/them] directly.

Professional Capabilities and Achievements

[Candidate’s Name] has displayed outstanding engineering and management capabilities during our collaboration. In one notable project, [specific project/task], [he/she/they] [specific action taken], which led to [quantifiable result/outcome]. This accomplishment underscores [Candidate’s Name]’s proficiency in [specific skill, e.g., project management, technical innovation, systems engineering].

Another significant achievement was during [another specific project/task], where [Candidate’s Name] [specific action taken], resulting in [quantifiable result/outcome]. This demonstrated [his/her/their] ability to [related skills, e.g., lead cross-functional teams, optimize engineering processes, handle complex technical challenges].

Leadership and Team Collaboration

Beyond technical expertise, [Candidate’s Name] has shown exceptional leadership and teamwork. [He/She/They] effectively led a team of [number] engineers in [specific context], ensuring the successful completion of [specific project/task]. [His/Her/Their] ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment was critical to our success.

Constructive Feedback and Growth

I have provided [Candidate’s Name] with feedback on [specific area for improvement]. [His/Her/Their] response was proactive and enthusiastic. [He/She/They] [specific actions taken to improve], which significantly enhanced [his/her/their] performance in [related context]. This commitment to continuous improvement is a testament to [his/her/their] professional growth.

Personal Qualities and Values

[Candidate’s Name] is known for [his/her/their] integrity, dedication, and willingness to help others. For instance, during [specific instance], [he/she/they] [specific actions taken to support others]. This not only improved team morale but also reinforced [his/her/their] role as a trusted and respected leader within our organization.

In summary, [Candidate’s Name] possesses a rare combination of technical acumen, leadership skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement. I am confident that [he/she/they] will thrive in the [Master’s in Engineering Management program] at [University Name] and make significant contributions to both the program and the broader engineering community.

Please feel free to contact me at [Recommender’s Email] or [Recommender’s Phone Number] if you need any further information.

[Recommender’s Name] [Recommender’s Title] [Company Name]