1. Strong, consistent performance in formal coursework (exams, problem solutions, participation in class discussion, notebooks, experimental skills, insight, etc.)

2. Evidence of professional commitment
   1. Student shows signs of already being a physicist; attendant professional integrity.
   2. Accomplishments in major projects, research, and/or independent study.
   3. Desirable attributes: independence, enthusiasm, high personal standards, willingness to think on feet, ability to pursue self-study, inclination to engage in intellectual give and take; recognition that physics can be fun but but elicits also a higher level of response.
   4. Extensive reading (browse through journals or Physics Today or Scientific American occasionally; read beyond coursework)
   5. Recognize that courses are not ends in themselves, but rather means toward an end; retention of and ability to draw upon basic understanding of core of physics.
   6. Eagerness to interact intellectually, aggressively, and scientifically with visitors; inclination to enter into meaningful scientific discussion and argument.

3. Personal attributes
   1. Friendly, cooperative, confident, forceful when appropriate, intellectually vigorous.
   2. Show initiative, perseverance, independence, and self-reliance.
   3. Inclination to plan one's future.
   4. Strives to work near the limit of one's ability.
   5. Effective as a teaching assistant.

Please supply stamped addressed envelopes and make sure the addresses on the envelopes agree with the addresses on form (if any) to which letters are to be sent (or attach a Post-It explaining why it differs). Make sure your name is on the form, fill out as much of the recommender's part of the form as you can, and make sure the due date is prominently identified somewhere.