<p>Hey everyone,</p>
<p>If a professor from X institution writes a letter recommending a student for that institution, what kind of impact could it have? Can it be significant?</p>
<p>For example, if someone like Noam Chomsky recommends a student to MIT (this obviously isn't happening, but bear with me), would it significantly increase the student's chances? </p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>I think you have to put something like this ‘extreme’ example under a hook. It will get you noticed, but it is not going to make up for a lackluster GPA & course rigor.<br>
Unless your attendance will determine a LARGE amount of $ for the university (ie, new library, or bowl game) then the hook alone isn’t going to get you in.</p>
<p>But if there are X amount of students with similar stats and 10% will get in, the letter would help, no?</p>
<p>Your question was if a LOR would ‘significantly’ increase chances. A significant impact is one that would have equal weight or override other factors such as GPA, scores, or class rigor. If all things are equal and one student has great LORs, that may be a deciding factor. If academics are equal and one has really unique ECs that impress an adcom that might be a deciding factor.
It is important to have, as others will as well. It will never hurt. It is not necessarily going to be your ticket in.</p>
<p>According “A is for admissions”, a strong letter from a faculty member would place a flag on your profile. </p>
<p>I’m not exactly sure what it does, but I’m guessing that the professor, who is extremely familiar with the University and classroom dynamics, is essentially saying that you are a perfect fit for the school. Also, it might mean that the professor likes you because of your laboratory skills and might want you to work under him during your time at the university. </p>
<p>Otherwise, a faculty letter means nothing. Someone you don’t know writing you a recommendation wastes the admission committee’s time, and they might detract marks for that.</p>