<p>I plan to apply to American (and other schools) this fall (starting fall 2012) and I had a question regarding recommendations. I will major in political science, and I’ve been involved in local politics for over 2 years now. I will get two recommendations, one from my Junior year english teacher, and another from my guidance counselor/baseball coach. But, I was wondering if getting 1 or 2 extra recommendations from political figures, such as a former statewide elected official, would help me at all, specifically if my SAT’s scores aren’t as high as I would like. Or would it hurt me because they don’t want to see extra recommendations/items?</p>
<p>Some schools specifically say no more than one or two recommendations. American is not one of these schools. At one info session I attended we were told of a perspective student who gave way too many letters and was not admitted (probably not the letters but they sure did not help!). One or two extra letters should be fine if they give information on your strengths not provided by your teacher and guidance counselor. My daughter had four letters of recommendation - two teachers, one extracurricular advisor, and her guidance counselor.</p>
<p>Following directions is usually a good thing. Imagine you are an admissions officer going through a pile of 3,000 applications in a week… Unless it really adds something special, just give them what they ask.</p>
<p>Definitely send that letter in from a statewide elected politician or something similar. He/she would have credibility in the field you are applying to study in. Trust me, an extra letter would not hurt, especially if you may be lacking in the test scores section. AU truly does take on the wholistic (sp?) approach when reading through applications. It’s the people that go overboard that get annoying. An well-writte, extra letter can only help you if you are a stellar candidate, not hurt you.</p>
<p>Sending in four letters did not hurt my daughter - she was accepted into Honors with the Presidential Scholarship. As ryan02649 stated, it’s the people who go overboard (and I don’t think four is overboard) that are annoying. Showing interest is very important, so visit, sign up for an interview, etc.</p>