Shopping for LORs

[Deanis]

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So I'm wondering if is better to get a reference from

a) A professor from undergrad in whose class I got an A and did a summer research term with

or

b) My OChem I professor from last semester who said he had given me the highest mark he has ever given in that course.


I know the immediate response will probably be a), but the thing is that the course and research semester for professor a) was in the summer of 2001 (7 freakin years ago). Neither one of them know me all that well. Professor a) knew me 7 years ago somewhat, and professor b), well, I only did one course with him (though he did say if I ever needed to stop by and talk, then I should).

What do you guys think?

(two of my other LORs come from my pastor and my M.Sc. supervisor. Both wrote awesome letters). The schools I'm applying to (Canadian) only allow a total of three.

 

[gman33]

Not sure if Canadian schools are different, but did you see your LORs?
This is a big no no in the US. While it's technically your right to see the letters, schools want you to waive that right. If they know that you saw the letters, they bascially are worthless. I guess the thinking is that the LOR writer can give a more objective opinion if they know you are not going to see it.

I'd vote for the more recent Ochem prof, if they can write you a strong letter. Set up a meeting with him or her, tell them about your goals, and ask if they would be willing to write a STRONG letter. You may want to bring a copy of your resume or your PS to give them a better idea of who you are as a complete person. Ask them what you can do to give them the tools needed to write the letter.