LoR advice Forum

[Bobeo]

One of my good friend's dad is a judge. He recently told me he would write a letter of rec for me. Would this be a good LoR? I already have 2 average letters from professors and an above average one from an employer.

Is an above average letter from a judge who you know personally better or worse than average letters from professors?

[Hawkeye Pierce]

They don't really know you in a professional capacity... so I wouldn't do it.

[admisionquestion]

It is a bad idea. Here are the reasons:
1. Because, all LOR's should begin with an explanation of how the writer knows your. He will either have to BS (which might be awkward and risky) or he will say something outright awkward and risky.
2. Because you should not send 4 LOR's unless you have a damn good reason. You don't have one.
3. Because you should keep that favor and milk it later-when it will really do something for you.
The exception is if the judge is on the US Supreme Court and/or if I am wrong about 1 and he can say something meaningful about working with you.

[Bobeo]

I figured that since it was a more personal relationship it wouldn't be a good idea. Thanks for confirming