I’m going to be applying to Berkeley with a 3.5 GPA (4.0 last two years of High School). I screwed around my first two years and got a B average but 100% in all my tech classes. I’ve also been told that my admission essay is incredible and will set me apart. I kept myself genuine whilst writing and I only wrote about things that I care about.
I also personally know the CEO of a $600m startup in southern California that’s recently gotten an investment from SnapChat and has been doing incredibly well lately. If I use him as my optional recommendation letter, do you think this will help my chances of getting in? If so, by how much?
One more thing, I’m also the founder of a website that get’s weekly traffic above 75,000. How much will this help as well?
That’s because they rarely accept optional recommendations from applicants unless they would like more information or they’re sending out the option of one randomly. I’ve been granted permission to use one. So thoughts?
Send it if he/she can write a stellar one. The recommendation is about YOU, not about him/her or his/her accomplishments. Who can speak best on YOUR behalf?
@Procka - assume you are a junior now? Anyways, UCs accept recommendations only if they ask for it. Also, just personally knowing someone will not help. If you have worked for this CEO - that will help. Your own website - will help you.
I guess I’ll use his recommendation and hope for the best. Think my odds are okay?