Hi Guys. So of course I am freaking out, as that is the norm when applying for MFAs. I need your opinion. Who are the most appropriate individuals to write your recommendation letters when applying for MFA/MArch programs?
Here's a little background on myself:
I graduated with my BS in Media Studies (emphasis in Advertising) in 2009. I took a few courses in fine arts and graphic design, but did not pursue a minor or double major at the time (was ranked magna cum laude).
I immediately started my MA in Commmunications (thinking it was something that it was not, but I don't believe in quitting so I continued). I will graduate with this in 2011.
I have provided freelance graphic design work since 2006 working heavily in print design and since earlier this year started expanding into exhibition design (which is partially what I want to pursue).
I have worked in-house in a variety of industries (primarily higher education), but starting January 2011 began working through arts institutions. Worked at the Regional Arts Commission until May and at a Musical Theatre company since. My background is primarily marketing design (which I particularly do not favor) and is pursuing a MFA/MArch to expand my designing into exhibition, installation and environmental graphic design.
My supervisor at the Regional Arts Commission, the gallery manager, (and current supervisor since I still provide exhibition designs for each of their shows) has agreed to write me a letter, but I cannot determine who else I should use.
I am strongly considering having a RAC Board Commissioner/Co-founder of Endowment in which I was working under during my tenure and her husband (retired tenure professor at area institution and co-founder of endowment) write me a letter. I was the inaugural recipient of their endowment (they are estastic to write the letter). But, I am concerned about using them at institutions such as SAIC since neither technically worked in the VISUAL arts (commissioner is the founder of a dance studio). I have also designed collateral for this endowment for future applications, collateral for the commissioner's dance studio and developed a proposal of expansion of the endowment (which was greatly received). Would they be good for a recommendation? Would their recommendation be a good stand alone with the Gallery Manager's recommendation for programs such as SAIC that only require two letters?
I unfortunately have not worked with my design instructors since my undergraduate studies and thus they will not be able to speak on my current work. I cannot get a letter from my current supervisor as I just started working for them this year (I will be in my current position for over a year before I start MFA program; should I try to get some of my coworkers to write letters instead?). And, I don't feel like a letter from my MA communication instructors would do anything since none of them have seen my designs and they are more focused on academia within that field.
What should I do? Any suggestions? I personally don't think it is a good idea to use clients as they probably won't have much clout in these MFA programs. They also may be viewed as biased.
Just FYI, I am applying to:
SAIC MFA in Visual Communication Design & MArch in Interior Architecture (3-year program) - requires two letters
University of Chicago MFA - requires three to four letters
University of Illinois Chicago MFA in Graphic Design - requires three letters
Washington University in St. Louis MFA - requires three letters
PLEASE HELP!!!!