<p>I made a thread a week or so ago regarding undergrad research and whether it's relevance has an impact on grad school admission. I don't have the opportunity to do research that I would really like to pursue for grad school, however, i believe I am making the best of available opportunities. I'm currently doing research with polymers and composites in the ME department. I am very interested in control systems and maybe propulsion, more so for AE applications. </p>
<p>Anyways....I always see people saying "If your LOR writers have connections at the school you're applying to, that'll be a bonus."
Now, I'm concerned. What are the chances that my current professor who is doing materials related research is going to know a grad school professor who does research in control systems/propulsion? Not very high is what I'm guessing. I know I can ask them this question, but I think I already know the answer.</p>
<p>How important are these LOR connections that I see a lot of people emphasizing? I understand it is not a must, but I have also become aware that having a connection can almost guarantee your admittance. I'm concerned because I don't have that luxury.</p>