Recent searches
Search options
Yeah, ChatGPT, you’ve pretty much got the patter down. Thanks for regurgitating what I assume is an amalgam of assorted templates you found online.
![ChatGPT scheenshot:
Write a letter of recommendation for computer science graduate school.
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend [Student Name] for admission to your computer science graduate program. I have had the pleasure of teaching [Student Name] in my [course name] class, and have been consistently impressed by [his/her] aptitude for computer science.
In my class, [Student Name] consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of computer science concepts and was able to apply these concepts to solve complex problems. [He/She] consistently impressed me with [his/her] critical thinking skills, ability to work well in a team, and passion for the field.
In addition to [his/her] academic abilities, [Student Name] also has a strong work ethic and is highly dedicated to [his/her] studies. [He/She] is always willing to go the extra mile to learn new concepts and master new skills.
I have no doubt that [Student Name] would thrive in your graduate program and make valuable contributions to the field of computer science. I strongly endorse [him/her] for admission to your program, and I am confident that [he/she] will be an asset to your community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]](https://media.hachyderm.io/media_attachments/files/109/509/917/781/418/240/original/6be9498aadafc3fb.png "ChatGPT scheenshot:
Write a letter of recommendation for computer science graduate school.
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to highly recommend [Student Name] for admission to your computer science graduate program. I have had the pleasure of teaching [Student Name] in my [course name] class, and have been consistently impressed by [his/her] aptitude for computer science.
In my class, [Student Name] consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of computer science concepts and was able to apply these concepts to solve complex problems. [He/She] consistently impressed me with [his/her] critical thinking skills, ability to work well in a team, and passion for the field.
In addition to [his/her] academic abilities, [Student Name] also has a strong work ethic and is highly dedicated to [his/her] studies. [He/She] is always willing to go the extra mile to learn new concepts and master new skills.
I have no doubt that [Student Name] would thrive in your graduate program and make valuable contributions to the field of computer science. I strongly endorse [him/her] for admission to your program, and I am confident that [he/she] will be an asset to your community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]")
I’m warming to the current generation of LLM AIs being a positively useful tool for setting a “what is the obvious, standard bullshit” baseline for a given topic. I’m writing a letter of recommendation; what can I do that an automated BS generator can’t? That clarifies my purpose.
I asked my students to consider that question (https://hachyderm.io/@inthehands/109479808455388578), and now I’m considering it myself and finding it useful.
In the case of my letter of recommendation, what can I provide that the algorithm can’t? Actual information about the student. Not just judgements and platitudes, but specifics.
The hollow familiarity of GPT’s output above might prompt some reflection around the role of letters of recommendation. Might, or at least ought to.