How much would an alumnus rec letter help?

Colleges and Universities A-Z Oberlin College
1

<p>In addition to my two academic teacher recommendations, I already have an outstanding supplemental letter from my drama teacher. However, the head of the music department at my school (at my performing arts school) is an Oberlin alumnus. I am a drama major, not a music major, but I do have an elective music theory class with him. He knows me pretty well and says that I am one of his "favorite and most interesting students". </p>

<p>Oberlin only accepts 3 letters over common app. Would having a letter from an Oberlin alumnus give me any extra boost over my drama teacher's letter? Would it make the admissions officers angry if I sent more than 3 letters?</p>

<p>(Note: The music teacher attended the Conservatory, whereas I am applying to the College of Arts and Sciences.)</p>

2

<p>We will accept an additional letter if you want to send both your music and drama teacher recommendations. If you want to pick just one, go for the one that you think will be the best letter–we won’t give special weight to the music recommendation just because it comes from an alum.</p>