Need a letter of recommendation?
I know that you have put a lot of work and thought into the application process. In order to ensure that my letters respect and reflect your efforts, I only write letters for students when I can make a strong case for them. Generally, that includes students who have been in one or more of my classes and done very very well, worked with me on research for at least one semester or worked with me one-on-one for a long period in some other capacity that is relevant to your application.
My colleague in the Political Science Department at UC Riverside, Kim Yi Dionne has a blog post with advice for asking for letters of recommendation that is worth reading .
Good luck.