Letters of Recommendation - Honest answers please

[strongtoad]

1) Should I choose a recommender who knows me best but does not have a "fancy" title or a recommender who knows me a bit less but who has a "fancier" title (say, a young manager vs. a partner)?

2) Does not having a recommendation from your current direct supervisor somehow harm your application at top schools? Stanford and Columbia explicitly ask recommendations from your direct current supervisor. They say they will understand if you are not able to provide such recommendations, but doesn't it affect your application?

Thanks a lot.

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi Strongtoad,

These are such great questions. Here is my response:

1. Pick someone who knows you well and has supervised your work. Adcoms appreciate someone with specific knowledge and insight rather than someone with a fancy title who can't give concrete examples.
2. Bschools understand that it isn't always possible to procure a recommendation from a direct supervisor. Just to be sure to note the reason in your application (i.e. it could jeopardize your employment).

Regards,

Stacey