Should you waive your right to view letter of recs?

[top10hopeful]

Hi Lisa,

I'd like your opinion on if you should/should not waive your right to view and if this has any implications on adcom's view of your candidacy or character? I presume waiving would indicate confidence in your choice of recommenders, but then again, people (like me) are probably curious to see what the recommenders wrote. However, I would opt to waive if it makes a substantial difference to adcom.

I look forward to your thoughts on the matter.

Thanks in advance!

[LSB]

interesting question

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear top10hopeful,

It is absolutely best to waive your right to view the recommendations. If you reserve your right, it is not a negative per se, but you are correct that the admissions committee might question your judgment in selecting your recommenders. Likewise, the recommendations might be viewed as less meaningful in the eyes of some admissions committee members. If you are truly not worried about what your recommenders write (as you should be), then it is best to waive your right. Just my two cents.

Regards,
Lisa

[top10hopeful]

Thanks Lisa. I figured as much; I guess I was just secretly hoping you would say it wouldnt make a difference. I will waive my rights and just not let my curiosity get the best of me.