So I'm in a bit of a rut here. Had three recommenders, but tale as old as time, one of them has flaked approx 2 weeks from the deadline. I don't really have anyone else that I'm super comfortable with asking, but my other two recommenders know me/my work pretty well and will write strong letters so idc if this third letter is weak.
But that being said, for the one professor I'm thinking about asking, how do I explain to her that a need a letter by Feb 7? Actually my deadlines are Feb 1 and Feb 7, but for the Feb 1 school I'm thinking about asking for an extension. Anyhow, do I let her know that the reason I'm contacting her twoish weeks in advance is because the other guy flaked? I want to explain my circumstances because I'm giving her such a terrible deadline, but I feel like that gives the impression that she's my last choice and I don't really value her recommendation (I mean she is my last choice but you gotta do what you gotta do)
On the other hand if I approach her brand new without explaining anything then it looks really unprofessional to ask for a letter on such short notice.
What would you do?
Thanks