Update Faculty Who Write Your Recommendation Letters

I write a lot of recommendation letters for my students. They aren't easy to write. Each one takes time as it is tailored to the student. I discuss my relationship with the student and his or her work, motivation, career goals, and aptitude. I'm invested in the student's application to graduate school. So what's my major gripe? Not learning the outcome -- did the student get in to graduate school? What are his or her plans? While I've discussed the importance of thanking your recommenders, also take time to fill them in on the outcome of your application. We care. Really.