Recommender Advice

Hmm, interesting question.

Here's the issue - while the latter two could provide the strongest recommendations, it doesn't provide differing points of view and, more importantly, it doesn't satisfy the requirements of schools.

It's always an uncomfortable position to be in when a supervisor asks you to write the recommendation yourself. And I absolutely understand your trepidation in asking your current supervisor. That's not an uncommon situation to find yourself in and it can be explained. Keep in mind, just because it can be explained doesn't mean it removes all the negative from it. If you left your previous firm 1.5 years ago, then you're providing them with a recommendation from a professional standpoint that is, effectively, out of date.

So here's the avenue that probably best. Get in touch with your former supervisor and have a frank conversation. Tell him or her that you want them to provide the recommendation but you don't feel ethically comfortable writing it yourself. Hopefully they'll understand. Your second recommendation should come from either the business partner or the LDS mission. But of those two, I would lean towards the community / business partner.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Bhavik