LOR from Family Member?

[AmandaLeeW23]

Hi all,

  I am applying for Master programs in Speech Pathology.  Part of the reason I ever became interested in the field is because I have a cousin who is a Speech Pathologist. I have spent a lot of time working with her in her clinic and observing other pathologist in her clinic. I thought it wouldn't look good to have a family member write me a letter of rec, but she disagrees and said it would actually look better because she is in the field, etc. I am also applying to majority of Texas schools, her clinic is in Houston Texas and she has a special service that no other clinic in the state of Texas offers (a pretty big deal!) so I thought it would maybe be really good for her to write and talk about that and how I was able to pick up so much more knowledge than just in a regular clinic. All opinions welcome

[ck926]

I think a letter coming from your cousin would be fine; it sounds like your experience in her clinic is extremely relevant, and I'm sure you learned a lot that will only help your graduate career. However, it might be best if she leaves out the part about being your cousin.

[Queen of Kale]

Without a doubt leave out the fact about being a cousin.  Otherwise it just looks like a family favor.

[Meanyus]

Are you lucky enough to have different last names? If so, I wouldn't even mention it.