To the editors:

I am writing to comment on "Junior Thesis Woes" (Editorial, March 3). The common application for grants to which the editorial referred is the result of careful thought and meant to facilitate the application process for students.

The essence of the application is a proposal outlining the feasibility and necessity of the research. The more developed the proposal, the more likely it will be persuasive, but at the same time, there is considerable room for exploratory research. Even for juniors who are now narrowing their interests, classes have been underway since Feb. 3, allowing ideas to percolate for a month.

The common application will streamline the process. But we also hope that an early March deadline will get potential applicants thinking early about their thesis ideas and advising relationships. Earlier selection decisions allow those selected to refine their proposals and those not selected to seek other avenues.

The main intent of this effort has been to benefit students. It is, therefore, something that we and participating centers will evaluate later this spring. I welcome candid feedback from anyone applying on the pros and cons of the common application process and its timing.

Paul A. Bohlmann

March 3, 1999