Should I take this class for the possible REC?

Transfer Students
1

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>I registered for my spring classes and I'm pretty happy with my classes, however Im not sure if I should take this professor...This economics prof went to UPenn, NYU, and MIT, and since I will by applying to transfer in to UPenn and most likely NYU as an economics major, I thought it would be a pretty good idea if I eventually have him write a rec for me. </p>

<p>The problem is that apparently it’s a lecture class with about 400 people so I'm not sure if he would be the best professor to write a rec. Maybe I should have him write my 2nd recs for schools that require it. </p>

<p>From what I hear at ratemyprof.com he isn’t the greatest teacher, and I can definitely take other professors that will fit my schedule better, so what should I do? If I do end up having a good relationship with him and he knows me pretty well and likes me (lol), would this affect my chances at UPenn, or even other colleges? </p>

<p>Thanks a lot</p>

2

<p>Even though he seems to have a lot of clout, I would get a professor to right your rec who knows you on a more personal level and can really write an honest and moving recommendation- plus, just b/c the person went to UPenn and writes your rec does not make you an automatic in- esp. considering he is not supposed to be a good prof, I would find another professor</p>

3

<p>Just to clarify, even if I do take his class and have him write a rec, it would only be my 2nd rec, as in if a college asks for 2 recs Ill have him write one, but if they only ask for 1 rec, Ill ask another prof (who had a class < 25 people )</p>

4

<p>I'd think it'd be better to get one from someone who you'll be able to foster a relationship with. Yes, that sounded creepy, but if the class is huge and he never knows who you are, what can he possibly write in the rec?</p>