FOR FACULTY
Because the high stakes generate stiff competition, the Selection Committee hopes you will find time for writing a searching and detailed statement about the candidate. The Committee will be especially grateful for evidence concerning the following aspects of the candidate’s achievements and qualities: academic performance; breadth and depth of professional training; capacity for further academic growth; analytical and critical ability; effectiveness in oral and written communication; promise of scientific, literary, or artistic creativity; self-reliance, self-discipline, and emotional maturity; cultural breadth; physical and social adaptability; ethical strength; concern for others; potential for leadership or significant social service; health and physical vigor.
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In 2009, the Provost’s Council on Student Honors modified the Rhodes, Marshall, and Mitchell application process at U-M. Candidates are urged to take advantage of mentoring by the Provost’s Council on Student Honors by submitting preliminary application materials (draft essays and resumes) beginning the first week of April. Faculty members of the Provost’s Council on Student Honors will provide guidance during the summer, and applicants should use that time for communicating with recommenders and redrafting their essays.
The official institutional deadline for applying for the University’s endorsement is the last Monday in August. Essays, resumes, and recommendations (unless they were submitted during the preliminary phase) are due by email to Assistant Vice Provost Gretchen Weir by noon.
The strongest applicants will be invited to Interviews in the second week of September, and endorsements will be announced by the middle of the month. Applicants who are endorsed by the University will prepare formal application packets in late September. Rhodes recommendations (one original and 9 copies) must be sent directly to the appropriate Rhodes secretariat. Recommendations for the Marshall and Mitchell are submitted online. These national deadlines are in early October.
Faculty recommendations play an extremely important role in both phases of this selection process. Please be as thorough and specific as possible in your comments on the student’s qualifications.