[jlpumkin]

I'm having a hard time choosing a reference for my grad school application. What would be considered best - an instructor from my BA studies who can attest to my work ethic/academic abilities, or a volunteer coordinator from where I volunteer? The volunteer work is in the field that I am pursuing my degree BUT I am new there and I don't know that they know me well enough yet to really attest to my abilities. I'm a bit anxious in general because it's a fairly competitive program so I don't want to miss the opportunity.<br>
Thanks for your thoughts! I know a lot of you momma's have BTDT already!

 

[Lingmom]

What's the field? I think if it's a heavily academic field, go with the professor reference. If it's something more professional, use the work reference.

 

[jlpumkin]

The program is conflict resolution for mediation. If it matters, the instructor is the one that originally referred me to the center to volunteer. So I think he has an accurate idea of my career aspirations. He's the way I'm leaning, but want to just run it by others for opinions as well... Dh is no help.. he sent in I think like 10 reference letters when they requested 3 (over achiever <img alt="" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/lol.gif" style="border:0px solid;" title="lol"> )

 

[calicocj]

Sounds like the instructor would be best, but could you do both?<br><br>
Also, if one of them is in any way connected or networked with anyone in the program, I'd choose that one... committees seem to like letters from people they know or have a connection with...

 

[Twilight]

Do both! My application packet required 3 letters of recommendation and I turned in 4. I wanted to have one "backup" in case someone didn't come through with the letter, and I ended up having more than I needed. I just turned them all in with the packet.

 

[rainy32]

the professor, all the way. I'm a professor and place much higher weight, when admitting people to grad programs, offering scholarships, etc. to academic letters. make sure the letter writer talks about referring you to the internship, though, and about your practical experience in the field.<br><br>
good luck!

 

[jlpumkin]

Thanks! I knew there would be some good info here!