Non-traditional LORs

[Wozezeka]

I am a returned peace corps volunteer and I plan on using my program director as a reference in my application to public policy programs. He wrote a great letter for my current job and I know that PP schools want people with work experience. However, his writing style is different than the standard American style and I don't think he has written many letters for grad school. Will this matter?

Also, I can get academic letters easily, my professors remember me and were always impressed, but I also worked closely with a prof from another department in running our campus environmental club. Would it be beneficial to include that prof?

 

While I could get 3 academic letters, I personally feel that diversity would better represent who I am, my suitability for the program, and my strengths.

[jujubea]

Sounds like you already know the answer to your own question...!

 

I can't answer the first one for you.

Sounds like nail on the head as far as the work experience letter though.

And if the Prof at the environmental club saw you in action, then I don't see why not.

[bsharpe269]

I would definitely use the peace corps director. I think the environmental club prof would depend on your interests. In my opinion, it is best to have LORs that can comment on how well suited you are for the program you are applying to and your future jobs. If these things are related to the interests of that professor or if he can comment on these things then sure, i would use him. If not then I would find other professors who can better comment on your suitability for those particular programs.