<p>Hi there,</p>
<p>I'm in a bit of a quandary over recommendations and looking for guidance about how to proceed. I'm applying to a couple schools for Master's programs in education, one of which requires four recommendations. Let's just say that in creating a list of potential writers, some of my best working relationships did not make the list due to various reasons out of my control. That leaves the following:</p>
<p>*One most definite recommendation, though the writer only knew me for a short period three years ago. But still pretty solid. </p>
<p>*I'm considering asking a professor who has since left the school to teach elsewhere, but I know where she is. She taught my core humanities courses for the entirety of my first year in undergrad, but that was 2006-2007. Does anyone think this will be a viable writer to pursue regardless of the length of time that has passed since she knew me? Also, does anyone have experience with obtaining recs from professors who have left their schools? I'm wondering if this will be an obstruction of some kind for me. </p>
<p>*I think I have an excellent recommendation from one professor who was familiar with me for some time. BUT! There is a problem. A year ago I was considering applying to school and had already secured his rec when I was talked out of applying at the time and convinced to wait another year until it was more financially reasonable to go. I never contacted this professor regarding this decision, so as far as he's concerned, I either applied and went, or wasn't accepted. (I'm assuming schools don't forward notices about applications to their recommenders, of course.) How should I go about asking this professor to write a rec for me again? I fear I would come off like a chump (which I am one) for taking up his time when I didn't even apply last year. But I very honestly think it was the better decision to wait and I'm not sorry that I did, just that I wasted his time. Should I just explain the situation and politely ask for him to write again? I would only need him to send it to two schools. I'm just very concerned how poorly this reflects on me. </p>
<p>Finally, if anyone can answer to this last concern, that would be great. I don't have significant youth experience, except that lately I've volunteered at the animal shelter. But due to a recent injury, I haven't been able to volunteer as significantly as I'd like. Will a lack of youth experience keep me from admission?</p>
<p>Thanks for any and all input!</p>