Visiting professor for LOR

[mooochael]

I'm applying for M.A. programs in Latin American Studies this fall and my dilemma is the following: one of my potential letter writers, a great professor who encouraged me to edit and seek publication for a paper I wrote relating to my intended field of studies, is (was) a visiting professor at my undergraduate institution.

From what I understand, it's always preferable to get a letter from tenure or, at the very least, tenure-track faculty. Knowing full well that this is the case, do you think it would still be better, in my particular situation, to get a recommendation from a scholar who saw potential in me, mentored me through the research process, and helped me publish the paper? In addition, the professor has a Ph.D. in Spanish Literature with a concentration in Latin American literature.

Hierarchy is everything in academia, but would this sort of recommendation kill me over the more bland LOR I could get from a tenured/tenure-track professor?

[qbtacoma]

No, what will kill you is getting a letter from someone who doesn't know your work and can't speak to your specific strengths as a student. Every single applicant has glowing letters; it isn't enough for a professor to know you are smart/hardworking. This isn't an area where reputation will hurt you, but vagueness will. If this professor has been engaged enough to encourage you to publish, you should be all over this rec like a grad student on free food.

FWIW, one of my letter writers was a visiting prof when I knew him, and I was in my freshman year and not even a history major at the time. Of course I am but one datum, but my case proves it can be done.

[mooochael]

Thanks!