Letter on Zucker

To Whom It May Concern:

I write this letter on behalf of Dr. Ross Zucker, assistant professor of political science at Yeshiva University and Stern College for Women. He did not suggest that I write this letter, nor did he even encourage it. Instead, I do so of my own volition and desire. I felt it my duty to write a letter behalf of the single greatest professor I have had.

Due to my great desire to learn as much as I possible can while in college, I have had the privilege of studying with many different professors. Dr. Zucker is excellence personified. Not only is his knowledge of political science unparalleled, but his presentation is exciting, informative, and extremely interesting. I have never seen him back away from a lively discussion, nor have I ever witnessed him skirt an issue posed by a student. He has great control of the class, due in part to the enormous respect his students have for him. They realize they are in the presence of greatness.

I have taken three classes with him, one in my freshman year, one in my junior year, and one currently, and have loved them all. His ability to quote sources and produce bibliographies on the spot is one of the most remarkable things I have ever seen from any professor.

In addition to his obvious mastery of the subject matter, he is most helpful to students. I have yet to meet a nicer or more helpful man than Dr. Zucker. Like many other professors, he gives his home phone number to students on the first day of class with encouragement to call any time. At many points during research or studying, I called Dr. Zucker and he helped me greatly. I have never asked him a question he could not answer, and he always seems to have all the time in the world to help.

I am not normally given to hyperbole, and I do understand that some of what I have said in this letter could be dismissed as exaggeration. I assure you, however, every word I have said is the absolute truth. Therefore, I believe that for an institution such as Yeshiva University, that is constantly striving to improve academically, not giving Dr. Zucker tenure would be an egregious error.

Sincerely,
Jesse Mendelson
YC/IBC '99