<p>Let’s say you get a really, really good reccomendation. I’ll make an example. </p>
<p>Say you are applying to… Cornell, let’s say. Pretty good but not amazing Poly Sci program. How much would a letter from, for example, someone like a US Senator or Cabinet member help your chances of getting in, specifically if you are applying for poly sci? Could it, hypothetically, raise percentages from say 15% to maybe 50%?</p>
<p>I’m just wondering what type of weight recommendations hold. Also, who are the best to ASK for recommendations from? Beyond Teachers, that is.</p>
<p>I realize this is weird but it would really help me out. Merci to all who respond.</p>
<p>You’re not gonna like this, but it all depends. So you get a rec from a senator. Awesome, but what is this senator’s relationship with you? Did you intern for him/her, or is s/he a relative or friend of the family?</p>
<p>What will the senator say? Will s/he talk about the same things your counselor and teachers will talk about? Or will s/he bring in new insight?</p>
<p>A great rec. isn’t gonna make a difference if your grades, scores, and activities are bleh. However, if you’re already a strong candidate WITHOUT the extra rec., it could certainly boost your chances. I wouldn’t say 15% to 50%, though.</p>
<p>That is EXACTLY what I was looking for. Thank you.</p>
<p>I mean, this is a guy I’m going to be interning for and is a family friend and I’ve known since I was young. However, I don’t want to, per se, “bank” on him having influence to get me in to a school I want to get in to. HOWEVER, I know it will help. I was basically ignorant as to how much it can help.</p>
<p>Of course, any recommendation, from anyone, has to be offset with bare minimum good enough grades to be considered for the school, decent/good SAT’s, etc. </p>
<p>I was trying to make this post while not sounding cocky or arrogant or anything like that, hope I succeeded.</p>