Should I attach a LoR from my employer? Forum

[williammmc]

I worked at a restaurant for five years, and this span was during my entire university education. My boss has written me a LoR and I need to know whether or not I should attach it. It is a strong letter but only for my position as a waiter... Anyone have any suggestions on this? If you need further information to provide me with advice, just post or pm me.

[beachbum]

hmm, that's tough. You worked this job during the school year as well (i.e. it wasn't just a summer job)? If you feel it is particularly strong, you might submit it along with two academic LORs.

[williammmc]

Yes, all throughout the school year. I also received promotions during my time there (restaurant promotions are still promotions!) and that is stated in the LoR. My boss also talks about many charity events I volunteered for.

I also have 2 very strong academic letters from professors in two important departments in which I have done quite a bit of work/research, so it isn't as if I am in dire need of letters...

I don't know what to do!!!

[St.Remy]

Yes, all throughout the school year. I also received promotions during my time there (restaurant promotions are still promotions!) and that is stated in the LoR. My boss also talks about many charity events I volunteered for.

I also have 2 very strong academic letters from professors in two important departments in which I have done quite a bit of work/research, so it isn't as if I am in dire need of letters...

I don't know what to do!!!

I'd send the two academic LORs, because that's the number and kind that most schools want. You could keep the restaurant LOR in your back pocket in case of a waitlist. Frankly I don't know how most schools look at LORs from a job like waiting tables, so I'd just stick with the other ones that you have at this point.

[OGR3]

Yes, all throughout the school year. I also received promotions during my time there (restaurant promotions are still promotions!) and that is stated in the LoR. My boss also talks about many charity events I volunteered for.

I also have 2 very strong academic letters from professors in two important departments in which I have done quite a bit of work/research, so it isn't as if I am in dire need of letters...

I don't know what to do!!!

I'd send the two academic LORs, because that's the number and kind that most schools want. You could keep the restaurant LOR in your back pocket in case of a waitlist. Frankly I don't know how most schools look at LORs from a job like waiting tables, so I'd just stick with the other ones that you have at this point.

I like this idea.