I don’t know your relationship, so I don’t know what he can meaningfully say about you as a potential student. If you know what he could write about you that is substantive and different/more meaningful than your other recommenders can, then have him write it. If all he can write is that you are nice, bright, hardworking kid who would be an asset to any college, then no- all you would be doing is name-dropping, trying to get something for yourself by virtue of somebody else’s fame. But- as is clear from some of the above responses- that is a pov, not shared by everybody.
Perspective question: you can bet there a plenty of NYU applicants whose parents have very fancy friends- if you were an AdComm member, how would you deal with letters like that when reviewing applications?
My guidance counselor used to work in college admissions (granted, not at a school of the same caliber of those you’re mentioning) and he specifically advised me against submitting more letters of recommendation than asked for. There were several reasons for this: it’s padding your resume. It makes it look as though you have some inadequacy to compensate for. Such letters are often, at best, generic and don’t illuminate other qualities; at worst, they’re completely irrelevant. And they can annoy adcoms, turning them (subconsciously) against you: if you had to review several thousand applications, and you had to waste time reading so many extra letters, you likely wouldn’t be too inclined to favor the applicants who gave you more to do.
That’s just one perspective, of course, but based on that and on what others have said, I wouldn’t recommend it.
@sattut: during your interview, I’d imagine that it was an interesting point and it moved along your conversation. But I think you over-estimate how much of a nudge your acquaintance with the politician really helped you. Interviews generally gauge interest and to see you’re not a psycho.
OP: since you’ve bumped this, you’re intent on finding answers more to your liking, it seems. Your family’s serendipity to know/befriend a not-so-well known politician and his willingness to write a note that says: “great character, will be an asset to your univ” is really worthless. A 2nd year, enthusiastic student teacher who can gush about your in-class achievements, your collaborative ability, the fact that you’re not a jerk but actually a joy to be around – is 500 times more worthwhile than your politico’s note. Here’s what colleges want: http://mitadmissions.org/apply/prepare/writingrecs
There’s no earthly chance politician can write this for you. Drop this already.
Well I bumped my post quite a couple comments ago so I have sufficient answers needed. I have decided that I will drop it so thank you for your repeated advice.