Building Leaders for Advancing Science and Technology

Thank you for agreeing to provide a recommendation on behalf of Sample Applicant who is applying to the Building Leaders for Advancing Science and Technology program. BLAST is a partnership between the Virginia Space Grant Consortium, Old Dominion University, the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Selected students are immersed in the college experience at one of these partner institutions for 3 exciting days that are packed with hands-on STEM activities, faculty-led demonstrations, tours, and guest speakers.

We are looking for Virginia students who have a passion for STEM, especially those who have not yet had either the opportunity or the confidence to participate in experiential STEM programs. Academically qualified students are in 8th or 9th grade, have an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and/or math), and maintain at least a C+/B- grade average (2.7+ GPA).

Please help us select qualified students who will benefit from participating in BLAST by providing a candid evaluation of this applicant's academic ability and performance, classroom behaviors, and STEM potential. Your responses will not be shared with the applicant. This recommendation must be submitted no later than . Without this recommendation form, the student's application is incomplete and cannot be considered. Please direct your questions to vsgcblast@odu.edu.

Full Name:	Sample Applicant
E-mail:	sample-applicant@example.com
School Name:

How long have you known this applicant?


In what capacity have you known this student? (Example: student in my Biology class; member of Chess Club that I sponsor)


Please answer the following questions below.

Briefly describe the academic and personal strengths possessed by the applicant that you believe will help them be successful in coursework related to science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) and STEM-related programs like BLAST. (Maximum 250 words)

Describe how you believe participating in BLAST will impact this student personally and academically in the near term and the future. (Maximum 250 words) Please read the program description included at the beginning of this form. In the space below, share any additional information you can provide that will assist the review committee in understanding why this student is a great fit for BLAST. (Maximum 250 words)

Student Qualities Best I Know Top 10% Top 25% Average Below Average Unable to Judge Academic Potential Academic Achievement Interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Math) opportunities and disciplines Intellectual Creativity Problem-Solving Capacity Analytical-Thinking Ability Ability to Work Independently Ability to Collaborate in a Team Oral Communication Skills Written Communication Skills Seeks Help When Needed Work Ethic/Timely Completion of Tasks

First Name:
Last Name:
Position/Title:
Address:
Email:
Phone:

I certify that I am the person represented in this recommendation and that all the information contained herein is complete and true.