( Your name ) and I had several direct interactions as an advisee and a dissertation committee member . I had attended his proposal and defense presentations . Through intense discussions with him , I felt that he is good at designing algorithms for XX which is crucial in YY , and has a solid understanding in ZZ . He seemed to understand thoroughly how the domain properties of YY affect the formulation of ZZ . Also , his promptitude and drive in organizing those meetings were notable , which will be one of his strengths for growing as an active researcher in YY society .