LOR...to waive or not to waive?

[Genefreak]

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So I am completing applications for summer undergraduate research programs, and I need to input the names of the professors who will write me LOR's, on the online form it asks do I want to waive my right to view the letter. I was wondering if was better to waive my rights to view the letter once uploaded or not to waive my right.

Or does it even matter.

Thanks

 

[chiapet874]

So I am completing applications for summer undergraduate research programs, and I need to input the names of the professors who will write me LOR's, on the online form it asks do I want to waive my right to view the letter. I was wondering if was better to waive my rights to view the letter once uploaded or not to waive my right.

Or does it even matter.

Thanks

A non-waived letter is generally considered worthless. Waive your right to see the letters.

 

[Genefreak]

A non-waived letter is generally considered worthless. Waive your right to see the letters.

Thanks. I will do that.

 

[doctorshateher]

I would definitely waive your right to read the letters. If you have any doubts about what kind of letter a prof will write about you make sure you ask them if they feel they could write a positive letter of recommendation for you. If they hesitate about it, maybe look for someone else.

 

[Catalystik]

I agree with chiapet and vandsocc.

 

[ahmcadams]

As has been mentioned above: if you don't waive the letter, it is worthless to an adcom. LORs are already filled to the brim with embellishments of all manner, at times coming from writers who are not appropriately positioned to make such assessments. There's a lot to be skeptical of in LORs in general. An unsigned letter carries even less currency.

If you need a clue of how good a prospective letter might be, lead with your interest in obtaining a strong recommendation when you broach the subject with your prospective writer. If she is enthusiastic and agrees to write a favorable letter, that's great. If he's lukewarm and you don't think he'd give you a glowing rec, go elsewhere. It's worth the brief awkwardness of asking, "would you feel comfortable writing me a strong LOR?" to get a rec that will mean something down the line.