INFORMS Open Forum

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Cornelius. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Ibadan, where I graduated with First Class Honours. My final year project focused on Operations Research, specifically on the assignment problem. I then proceeded to Italy for my Master's in Applied Mathematics, and graduated with distinction (110/110 cum laude). My thesis was a literature review on decision tree-based classification algorithms.

Since I graduated, I have been actively applying to PhD programs in the United States, but unfortunately, I have not received any offers so far. Despite my best efforts, the process has become discouraging, my referees are understandably growing weary of writing repeated recommendations, and I am beginning to feel disheartened.

I am passionate about Operations Research and eager to contribute meaningfully to the field. I would deeply appreciate any advice, mentorship, or opportunities, such as co-authoring a publication, that might strengthen my academic profile and improve my chances of securing a PhD position.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I sincerely hope for a way forward.

Best regards,
Cornelius

Cornelius,

Trump has created a hostile environment for foreign students wishing to study in the USA. Try applying to a PhD program in another country, such as the United Kingdom or Canada.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Cornelius. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Ibadan, where I graduated with First Class Honours. My final year project focused on Operations Research, specifically on the assignment problem. I then proceeded to Italy for my Master's in Applied Mathematics, and graduated with distinction (110/110 cum laude). My thesis was a literature review on decision tree-based classification algorithms.

Since I graduated, I have been actively applying to PhD programs in the United States, but unfortunately, I have not received any offers so far. Despite my best efforts, the process has become discouraging, my referees are understandably growing weary of writing repeated recommendations, and I am beginning to feel disheartened.

I am passionate about Operations Research and eager to contribute meaningfully to the field. I would deeply appreciate any advice, mentorship, or opportunities, such as co-authoring a publication, that might strengthen my academic profile and improve my chances of securing a PhD position.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I sincerely hope for a way forward.

Best regards,
Cornelius