I was thinking about sending in and extra letter of rec with my app. As some of you may know, I work at the Buck Center as a research associate. I have been published twice but not in very prestigious journals. I was wondering if a letter of rec form my supervisor or principal investigator (he heads the lab) would help? If yes, who should I get to write the rec? I interact alot with my supervisor but he is not the head of the lab nor is he good at writing recs. The PI heads the lab but I dont get to see him very much because he sits in his office all day while I work in the lab.
<p>I think that's fine. Some schools will strongly discourage extra info, but most will take it. How much it affects your app though nobody knows, but it can't hurt. Make sure to make research a big focus in your app/essay as well, so there is consistency (though, don't make yourself look one-sided)</p>
<p>Some apps will state specifically against sending any additional material, especially rec letters. Adcom review time is limited and there just isn't any time to look at extra stuff.</p>
<p>Check with the colleges to be certain sending supplemental stuff is ok. If another rec the adds a new dimension to your application, send it.</p>
<p>I think in this case (because it's not another rec by an academic teacher saying the same old stuff) it could help your application as long as the college doesn't discourage extras</p>
<p>If sending an extra means 3-4 total, then it's probably alright. Colleges don't want to see 8 though.</p>
<p>It may mean that they will flip past it without reading it, but I can not see any real harm being done. The rec is relevant, from a good source, and from someone who knows you well. If you write on the research in your essay, refer to the person by name so that they may reference it back to the rec.</p>
<p>I heard it was bad. I read it from Acing the College Apps from Michelle Hernandez. She discourages additional material unless it's a piece of art or music. But if it shows another side of you and you feel REALLY strong about it i think it'll help.</p>