Famous Alumni - Additional letter of recommendation?

Applying to College
1

I am currently applying to transfer schools, and my chances of getting into my top choice can accurately be described as “on the fence.” My Grandma is friends with the wife of a very famous alumni of the school, and she (the wife of the alumni) said she would write me a letter of recommendation if I would like one. I was unable to include the letter of recommendation with my application because the application only allowed my academic advisor to submit a letter. My question is this:

  • Should I tell the wife of the alumni to write me a letter of recommendation?
  • If so, should I tell her to send it directly to the admissions office, or to me, so I can add my own personal note?

I don’t want to come off as generic or hurt my chances in any way, I’m not sure how common this occurrence is at admissions offices.

Thank you!

2

So you don’t even know this “famous” alumnus? It will come off as an act of desperation that will push you to the wrong side of the fence.

3

I don’t think a letter from the wife of a famous alumni who never met you would do anything to improve your chances.