Whats better connections or good scores/gpa

[Slipknot]

Im doing undergraduate research with professor who got both her masters and Bach degree from Cornell. She stated she wasn't a good student, but was able to get her masters and PhD from the connections she established while doing undergraduate research. In the long term whats better, connections or quantitative standings?

[fuzzylogician]

Connections. 

[Feanor]

Well, there's a reason they ask for reference letters. If someone they know is trustworthy vouches for you, it will say much more than a couple of letter grades.

[rising_star]

Without a doubt, connections. But, you can get into a good graduate program without them.