I know that the stock response is "whoever knows you best". I'm in the fortunate position that I have at least 4 past professors / bosses that know me pretty well. I need 3 LOR's, and I'm torn as to who should write my third.

I'm already pretty decided on the first two:

1. Old professor who I did workstudy for during undergrad. Also took private lessons from him in an advanced math course as part of an honors class. Although we haven't kept in touch lately, he's known me pretty well for my entire 4 years at school, plus the 2+ years since then. He is also an alumnus of the school I am applying to (not the Business school, but the Science school, receiving his PhD there).

2. VP at my previous job. I spent 2 years there, and while I did not report directly to him, I did interact with him daily. I also regularly presented analytical reports to him and his team. He is an alumnus of the BS school I am applying to.

My dilemma comes from my third recommender:

3a. My former manager (from my last job). Worked there 2 years. I had a good relationship with him and I feel he would write me a pretty solid recommendation.

3b. A former professor in college. I had him for a few undergrad (literature and social sciences) courses, and he regarded me very highly. I still keep in touch from time to time, and I don't doubt that he would write me a very good letter as well.

Would one seem preferable over the other? I'm completely torn and I don't know which to pick. Choice 3b (the lit professor) knows me and can attest for me on a more personal level than my boss can. On the other hand, not having a letter from my direct manager might seem like I have something to hide - when this isn't the case.

The LOR's are due in a few weeks, so I'd like to let them know ASAP... help!!