The document is a letter of recommendation for Anara Barlubayeva from her professor Claude Cicchetti. It states that Anara was in the top 5% of her International Finance class and received a grade of 4.0. The professor notes that Anara consistently contributed valuable comments and questions in class discussions. She was also a strong leader for group projects. The professor concludes by happily offering to serve as a reference for Anara and expressing confidence that she will excel in future endeavors due to her academic strengths, leadership skills, and pleasant demeanor.

1. July 28, 2016
RE: Anara Barlubayeva
To whom it may concern.
Anara Barlubayeva was a student of mine in FI351 International Finance, which is a course that
Economics-Finance majors typically take in their senior year. The course is challenging, as it covers a
broad range of topics to a fairly good depth, including foreign exchange, the balance of payments, the
international monetary system, interest rate derivatives, foreign exchange derivatives, portfolio theory,
global cost of capital, and international capital budgeting. Anara was in the top 5% of the class and
received a grade of 4.0.
As I look over her resume as I write this reference, I’m not surprised. I see a very high GPA and many
academic honors. I see statistical skills. I see some excellent internships. And I see engagement in the
Bentley community in leadership positions.
But while some students are able to earn top grades, professors particularly appreciate students like
Anara who also contribute in class and who can work effectively in teams. She was a ‘front-row’ student
- she was always present, attentive, and engaged. When I asked a question in class, she was one of the
students I could count on to respond. When she asked questions, she got to the heart of the analysis at
hand. When there was group work, other students often chose her to lead their group. But setting aside
her mastery of the course curriculum, she has a smiling, humble, good nature about herself. Anara was a
pleasure to have in class.
I am very happy to act as a reference for Anara and have no doubt that she will excel in her next
endeavor. She will also have a very positive impact on her peers; she is not only a top student, but an
exceptionally nice young woman.
Please feel free to contact me if I can provide any further information.
Claude Cicchetti
Bentley University
Program Director, Masters in Finance
Lecturer, International Finance
ccicchetti@bentley.edu
1 617 817 3026
175 Forest Street • Waltham, MA 02452 • +1.781.891.2000