<p>So for example if I apply to Cornell, would a recommendation letter from a Cornell graduate (my science teacher) help my chances?</p>
<p>Nope, what matters is not who writes the LOR, but what they say about you.</p>
<p>Go with the teachers who know you best and can write you the strongest rec. Where they went to school is irrelevant. Of course, if you have to write a ‘why this school’ essay, you can always cite the influence of that particular teacher if, indeed, her or she has been an influence.</p>
<p>I don’t know… I think if it is your strongest rec anyway, it could help a little. If the teacher is able to say why you would be a good fit and be successful at the college based on their experience, I think it could help. I wouldn’t do it if you would not pick that teacher for other reasons, though.</p>