Privacy-edited transcription · Names standardized to Ian Alkajami; contact details and signatures omitted.
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Ian Alkajami for your scholarship. I have had the opportunity to work with Ian Alkajami as a first-year student in the Architectural Technology program at NWTC, where he has been in three of my classes. During that time, I have come to know him as a motivated, capable, and thoughtful student who consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to his education and future in the field of architecture.
Ian Alkajami is a strong student academically and is a member of the honor society at NWTC. Early on, he distinguished himself through the quality of his work. In his first design course, he completed a cabin project with renderings that were of exceptional quality—well beyond what is typically expected at this stage. He has a strong grasp of technology and design tools, particularly Photoshop, and is not hesitant to ask questions when he encounters something unfamiliar. This willingness to seek understanding allows him to continually improve.
Beyond his technical ability, Ian Alkajami stands out for his work ethic. He has excellent attendance, consistently meets deadlines, and puts in more effort than most to fully understand each assignment. Rather than settling for the minimum, he works to find creative and thoughtful solutions to design problems.
Ian Alkajami has also shown growth in his collaboration and communication skills. While he initially found group work challenging, he has made noticeable progress and now contributes more effectively in team settings. He is a strong communicator who asks insightful questions that help engage not only himself but also his classmates. He also responds well to feedback and brings a positive, lighthearted attitude that contributes to a productive classroom environment.
One moment that particularly stood out to me was when Ian Alkajami first joined the program. He took the initiative to meet with all of his instructors together, not only to introduce himself, but to ask how he could be a benefit to the program and what he could do to improve. That level of initiative and self-awareness is rare, especially in a first-year student, and it speaks volumes about his character and drive.
Ian Alkajami has a clear passion for architecture, and I can confidently see him pursuing a future career as an architect. He combines technical skill, curiosity, and determination in a way that sets him apart from his peers.
I strongly recommend Ian Alkajami for your scholarship. He is the type of student who will take full advantage of this opportunity and continue to grow into a skilled and thoughtful professional.
Sincerely, Jonathan DeJardin, AIA