LOR question

[reluctantPhd01]

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I had a question about LORs.

Does it matter a ton if your writer is famous?

I'm sure it does to a degree, but I just wondered how much? I'm concerned because my letter writers aren't super connected to clinical programs. One is a famous social psychologist, and the other two are fairly new in the Clinical field. However, all three will write VERY strong letters.

Is this an issue?

 

[AcronymAllergy]

I had a question about LORs.

Does it matter a ton if your writer is famous?

I'm sure it does to a degree, but I just wondered how much? I'm concerned because my letter writers aren't super connected to clinical programs. One is a famous social psychologist, and the other two are fairly new in the Clinical field. However, all three will write VERY strong letters.

Is this an issue?

Having a well-known and well-respected professor write you a letter of rec can definitely be helpful, especially if he/she knows faculty at the programs to which you're applying. However, it's definitely not a necessity, and having writers who are familiar with your work habits and will produce strong letters is more important than simply having a "big name" rec.

 

[kea2115]

I feel as though this is clearly stating the obvious, but what really matters is whether or not the letter is strong. Of course it will influence the admissions committee if you have a strong letter from a well-known research. But, imagine if you had the opposite?

Just get strong letters from relevant people (i.e. not your therapist, or next-door neighbor).