Choosing a Professor for Recommendation

[warriordawg23]

I'm applying to several German schools for a master's program in economics. Most of the universities only accept one letter of recommendation so I'm faced with a dilemma.

I've already asked both professors and both have agreed to write letters of recommendation for me.

My one professor has taught me German for at least six semesters. We have such a great relationship that she asked me for a letter of recommendation a year ago. The problem, of course, is that she taught me a subject other than the subject, economics, that I'm studying in graduate school.

My other professor has only taught me one course in economics, but is very friendly and positive as well as the dean of economics at my university. I'm not an outgoing student though, so I don't know him very well. He called me a good student when I went to ask him and said he was delighted to write a L.o.R.. 

 

So my dilemma is whether I should have my German professor, who knows me very well and would definitely write a very positive recommendation, or my economics professor, who doesn't know me as well, write my letters of recommendation for the universities that only accept one letter of recommendation. What are your opinions? Does the enthusiasm of the recommendation or the relevance of the professor to the field matter more?

[rising_star]

I would go for the German professor, personally.

[F.graminearum]

I would go with the German professor that you know better. They will likely write a longer letter that says more about you as a person as well as you as a scholar. 

[Ethan M]

I think you should go with the letter of recommendation from the German professor, not just because you are applying to German universities but also the fact she knows you really well. Her letter would be more personal and honest, giving you an edge over the other applicants.    

[warriordawg23]

I thank you all for your help! I'm following your advice.

[artsy16]

Another possibility would be to have them write a joint letter, and then one of them simply uploads it to the application portal (or however it's submitted). That would only work if they knew each other somewhat and we're open to the idea. 

I would say the German professor, though. Other parts of your app demonstrate your knowledge and skill in the subject matter. The German prof knows *you*.