<p>This summer, I did a paid computer science research project that was supervised by a professor from a university that is ranked in the top 15 undergrad schools for computer science in 2009 by US News and has written 30+ books. Is it okay to write, in my description of the project, who supervised the project? Do I also list some of his credentials (professor, successful author, PhD in computer science, etc)? Or is it wrong to “drop names”?</p>
<p>It’s fine to say who supervised the project. I suggest using his complete name and title, "Dr. XXX XXX, professor at U of XXXX). No reason to list other credentials of his.
Would be a very good idea to have him write you a letter of recc that you can submit to the colleges that allow extra letters of recc.</p>
<p>You’re making a case for yourself. I’m sure the man himself is very accomplished and, if he’s anything worth his weight in the academic world, his name, affiliated institution and department, and position are all you need to name.</p>
<p>e.g.
Carnegie Mellon University - Department of Computer Science
Waiting F. Cal, *The Wealthy S. Moneybags Professor of Computer Science and Robotics<a href=“description%20of%20your%20responsibilities,%20leadership%20roles,%20initiatives%20taken,%20etc.”>/I</a></p>
<p>Extra letters of rec that don’t add anything substantive to your case or reveal anything new about your character are pointless. You don’t need a letter from “Professor Cal” saying: “This young man/woman was hardworking and earnest, a strong asset to our team. He’s a pretty cool guy, etc.”</p>
<p>This is your application, don’t list his accomlishments, list your own. </p>
<p>There is a certain amount of wieght that can be garnered from the fact that he works at the university in the first place.</p>
<p>Just list the pertinent information like name and institution and, it it applies to you because you helped, the research specifics. I wrote an essay on the Common App all about an experience at Caltech though I didn’t name any specific professors. However, I did get one to write me an extra rec as people have already suggested you do and I would also encourage you to look into.</p>