<p>I know they say that additional recommendations are not encouraged, but would it be okay to send one if it emphasizes a particular passion? I would like to work for a nonprofit company bringing medicine to developing countries. To supplement this interest, I interned at a nonprofit last summer. I know my mentor would write a good letter about my work ethic and integrity. Should I submit this to make myself standout (I don’t have any hooks or tips or whatsits)? </p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>I was in the exact situation as you. I interned for a nonprofit that focused on Lyme Disease and I did a lot of consulting/publications. I thought about getting the lady I worked under who was also the president/founder to write me a rec for my work.</p>
<p>I eventually decided against it since the rec she wrote wasn’t anything out of this world- and listing the work would be good enough.</p>
<p>Although you seem to be confident this reinforces your goals and is a stellar rec- my advice would be to go for it. If you want you can contact your regional admissions officer and ask.</p>
<p>IMO, the key to deciding whether or not to submit a supplemental rec is to see whether it says something significantly different than what your teachers are saying/reinforces your passion for a certain activity/cause/etc.</p>
<p>your mentor sounds like a good candidate for such a rec, but instead of asking her to focus on your work ethic and integrity (which i’m sure your teachers can attest to), try and ask her to talk specifically about your passion for bringing medicine to developing countries. </p>
<p>for what it’s worth, i submitted a supplemental rec detailing my passion for international affairs, and was accepted SCEA.</p>