How to select recommenders-- work/academic Forum

[gobosox]

I've been out of college for 3 years now and am applying for this cycle. I have already requested a letter from one professor I had for 4 classes and I've asked my Commanding Officer (I'm in the Navy) for a rec.

I'm wondering if I need another academic recommendation or if those two are enough. Does anyone have any thoughts? Thanks!

[TheJanitor6203]

I've been out of college for 3 years now and am applying for this cycle. I have already requested a letter from one professor I had for 4 classes and I've asked my Commanding Officer (I'm in the Navy) for a rec.

I'm wondering if I need another academic recommendation or if those two are enough. Does anyone have any thoughts? Thanks!

I'm in the Army and I did the same thing. Not saying we're right or wrong though. I think in our situation it's probably the best approach though. If you have another professor that will remember you that you think can write you a strong letter it's worth asking for but I wouldn't worry about it.

[heythatslife]

Generally, I think you'll be fine. Yale specifically states they prefer 2 LoR's, though.

[malleus discentium]

The general wisdom is that to the extent that anyone cares about LORs, they want exactly two academic references. A third letter had better be dazzling, otherwise it's more likely to hurt than help you. LORs absolutely matter at Y. S and to a lesser extent H also probably care about them and likewise will want academic references. Other schools also prefer academic LORs, but LORs in general matter less outside YHS. So if you're shooting for YHS then get academic references. Otherwise you can probably get away without two academic letters, but unless there's a compelling reason why you can't get academic LORs, it's a safer bet to have them.