I encourage you to talk with me about the possibility of writing a letter of recommendation for you. You should not ask, “Will you write me a letter of recommendation?” but instead, “Can you write me a strong letter of recommendation?” If I cannot, then I will tell you, and you can decide if someone else is in a better position to write you a letter. If I can, then I will happily agree to do so, but I will ask some things of you:
1) To fill out a general form that I have prepared.
2) To provide a recent copy of your BSU transcript and highlight all of the courses that you have taken with me. The transcript need not be an official copy.
3) To provide a copy of your resume (if you have one).
4) If you are applying to graduate school, to provide a copy of your GRE scores (if available).
5) To assess and convey to me your relevant knowledge, skills, and characteristics by filling out a second form. These will differ somewhat depending on whether you are asking for a letter for graduate school or a letter for job placement.
You can provide the above either in hard copy (in a folder with your name on it) or electronically (each item's name should begin with your last name).
It takes time for me to write a good letter for you. Please allow a minimum of 3 weeks for me to complete your letter. Remember that the ability to plan ahead is one of the topics I may address in your letter.
[This strategy for developing letters of recommendation is adapted from: Appleby, D. C. (2005). A developmental strategy to write effective letters of recommendation. Observer, 18(5), 36 ff.]