LOR from PhD vs MA Alumni

[Sarahmarie]

So I am just curious...which do you think would be better received as an LOR: a Masters Level alumnus of the University I am applying to who is an adjunct at my undergrad institution OR a PhD professor in my undergrad department who has no connection to the University I am applying to? I guess I always thought getting a reference from alumni would up my chances but now I am not so sure...Thoughts?

[Sigaba]

IMO, applicants should seek LoRs from established professional scholars who are BTDTs in the intended discipline of study (if not the exact field), that know well the applicant, and that will write a honest LoR.

I would only resort to a "master's level alumnus" for a LoR if I knew that both I and the writer of the LoR were members of an "old boys' network," and if person were either an experienced ABD or an established practitioner of the intended discipline, and if I were a top flight applicant attending a top five school. (And even if all those requirements were met, it might still be a roll of the dice.)

My $0.02.

[Sarahmarie]

Thanks for the advice. This alumnus is an adjunct professor and is probably not in the best position to eval me anyway. I only had her for one class and she is a business leader in real life (academia is a side gig for her). When I asked about the letter she said she would be happy to but then proceeded to ask what it should include, etc. so my indication now is that the letter would not be as strong as from a professor who has had me for several courses and knows how to write the letter at least! I just was momentarily blinded by the alumni label...You just reinforced my feelings. Thanks again!

Edited October 15, 2011 by Sarahmarie