Students Hub

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Welcome

I enjoy working with students at all stages of their academic journey. Whether you are exploring your first research experience, considering graduate school or just want to talk with someone, I am happy to help. This page outlines how to connect with me and what to expect.

Office and Hours

My office is in Computer Studies Building, Room 419. I hold regular office hours during the fall and spring semesters. Check the course syllabus or Blackboard for the current schedule. Outside of posted hours, I am available by appointment.

How to Reach Out

The best way to contact me is by email at ibarron@ur.rochester.edu. I typically respond within 24 to 48 hours on business days. When emailing for the first time, please include:

Your name and year (e.g., sophomore, senior, recent graduate)
A brief description of your interests or what you would like to discuss
Your resume or CV, if relevant

Mentorship Approach

I believe in building strong working relationships with students through in-person interactions. My mentorship style emphasizes regular face-to-face check-ins, clear expectations, and open communication. I work with each student to define goals and create a plan that fits their schedule and ambitions. I am committed to being present and accessible in my office and on campus.

What I Provide

Depending on the nature of our work together, I can offer things such as research opportunities, recommendation letters for graduate school and professional references for job applications, career advice, and connections to professionals in the field.

What I'm Looking For in Students

To me, technical experience matters less than the mindset you bring to the work. I look for students who are comfortable being challenged and who welcome feedback as a tool for growth. What matters most is your willingness to take accountability for your progress, maintain consistency and perseverance through difficult problems, and approach our time together with genuine interest in learning.

Research Opportunities

Research involvement can range from a single summer experience to multi-year commitments. I welcome both undergraduate and graduate students to collaborate on work that aligns with their interests and academic goals.

From time to time, I have specific research opportunities available through ongoing projects, active grants, and external initiatives. These positions typically come with more structured timelines and defined deliverables. I encourage you to reach out to discuss what might be a good fit for your experience level and goals.

If you are interested, email me at ibarron@ur.rochester.edu with the subject line "Research Inquiry." Please include your resume and a short statement (1 to 2 paragraphs) about your background and interests.

Teaching Assistant Opportunities

I usually get TA assignments for ECE 241 and ECE 245/445 depending on enrollment. TA positions involve grading, office hours, and sometimes leading review sessions.

If you are interested in TAing for one of my courses, contact me during the semester before the course runs. Strong performance in the course and good communication skills are the primary qualifications.

Keep in mind that TA assignments are handled through an administrative process managed by the department, not by individual faculty members. However, if you are a strong candidate and a good fit, I am happy to provide a recommendation to support your application. Reach out early so we can discuss whether a TA role might be right for you.

Other Opportunities

Beyond traditional research and teaching assistance, I work with students on a variety of projects. I have collaborated through the University of Rochester's Student Course Development Project, where we have improved lecture materials and implemented new lab activities for ECE 241. This kind of educational work offers a different perspective on how students learn and can be a rewarding way to contribute to course improvement.

Additionally, I provide guidance to students with new business ideas through collaboration with the Ain Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. If you are exploring an entrepreneurial venture or thinking about turning a technical idea into a business, let's talk about it.

To see examples of students who have engaged in research and other collaborative opportunities with me, visit the Impact & Outcomes section.

Recommendation Letters

I am happy to write recommendation letters for students when I can speak meaningfully to their work and abilities. Please review the following before reaching out:

You completed coursework or collaborated with me.
Submit your request at least 3 weeks before the earliest deadline. If you require a recommendation letter on a shorter timeline, please still reach out and I will do my best to support you if I am able.
Email me with context: what you are applying for and the submission deadline.
Attach or link your current resume and any supporting materials (personal statement draft, program description, etc.).
I can typically commit to 2 to 3 letters per application cycle. If I am unable to take on additional requests, I will let you know promptly.
When you request recommendation letters, please be as specific as possible about the total number you need. While I can sometimes accommodate additional letters beyond the initial number, agreeing to write a set of letters does not automatically mean I can commit to write as many additional letters as you need. Please think through your full list of applications upfront.
I write my own letters of recommendation. In other words, I will not accept student written letters for me to sign or a script/coaching to write your letter.

Email me at ibarron@ur.rochester.edu with the subject line "Recommendation Request" to get started.

Job Application References

I am happy to serve as a professional reference for job applications. Please note the following before adding me to your application:

You completed coursework or collaborated with me, and I have direct knowledge of your work and abilities.
Email me to discuss whether I can serve as a reference for your position. Include the position title, company or organization, and the expected timeline so I can assess whether I am the right fit to provide a strong reference for you.
I will be honest in my reference, speaking to what I know of your strengths and work quality. If I do not feel I can provide a strong reference, I will let you know.

To learn more about where my students have been accepted to graduate programs, secured scholarships, and launched their careers, visit the Impact & Outcomes section.