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jdburg26
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Optional Essay addressing why current sup didn't provide rec 27 Oct 2008, 09:54
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What should/should not be included in an optional essay to address why my current supervisor is not providing a recommendation? I have a 150 word limit, but I'm not planning on using all of that. I just want to be succinct and precise.

I would appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.

I'm not providing a recommendation from my current supervisor as he is unaware that I am applying to school and I do not want to jeopardize my standing for possible promotion and project assignment.

Thanks!
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CompanyMan
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Optional Essay addressing why current sup didn't provide rec 27 Oct 2008, 11:00
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Quote:
...I do not want to jeopardize my standing for possible promotion and project assignment.
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So this is the exact reason a lot of people give and most adcoms perfectly understand.

The fact remains that you need to provide another suitable recommendation. And most adcoms expect a former supervisor in a case like yours to write you a recommendation.
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Optional Essay addressing why current sup didn't provide rec 27 Oct 2008, 12:47
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thats a very clever use of the optional essay..
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McDargoiowkel
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Optional Essay addressing why current sup didn't provide rec 27 Oct 2008, 14:19
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Director of Admissions at UVA said the exact same thing. It's a known reason, so just state it simply.

UVA also recommends bullet points in the optional essay to address anything.
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Optional Essay addressing why current sup didn't provide rec 27 Oct 2008, 14:44
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I'd try to use the 150 words to highlight the current impact in your current role. then say in one line for those reasons your current manager can't be your recommender. Also state a line on why your choice of recommender is equally qualified. This way you give this optional essay a current leadership edge.
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Gil
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Optional Essay addressing why current sup didn't provide rec 28 Oct 2008, 00:31
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jdburg26
What should/should not be included in an optional essay to address why my current supervisor is not providing a recommendation? I have a 150 word limit, but I'm not planning on using all of that. I just want to be succinct and precise.

I would appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.

I'm not providing a recommendation from my current supervisor as he is unaware that I am applying to school and I do not want to jeopardize my standing for possible promotion and project assignment.

Thanks!
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I would simply say something along these lines:

"I am certain my current supervisor would have written a very enthusiastic recommendation on my behalf, however, he is currently unaware of my intention to get an MBA. I am concerned that asking him to write a recommendation will jeopardize my chances at a promotion in the event that I do not leave the company".