Dear Neha,

You should not use family members to write your recommendations, even though they might be your boss. Perhaps there is someone in the company who is not a family member or a customer/client/vendor you could ask? You might also ask any former supervisors from previous jobs you had or someone who supervised you on a community project.

Good luck,
Lisa

Dear JJ,

It is always best to avoid a family member if possible so as to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. Most importantly, your recommendation might not be viewed with as much value coming from a family member. However, if your only professional references possible are from family members, then you must determine which person in the company is the best to ask for your recommendation. Ideally, you want someone who has supervised you and is not your parent or sibling. Perhaps a cousin, uncle or aunt is a possibility? I also encourage you to submit a short paragraph on why you selected your recommenders in the optional essay or additional information section of the application. It is best to explain why you have selected the folks you did rather than risk the admissions committee thinking you asked family over non-family.

Good luck,
Lisa