<p>The operative word in Kryptonsa’s post is MAYBE. </p>
<p>I still counsel the OP to refrain from speculating about variable factors, since they are, by definition, variable. </p>
<p>I’ve received LORs from alums of my program who recommend their current students for admission. In many cases, these letters made no difference whatsoever. They certainly did not tip an applicant one way or the other.</p>