It's not a deal breaker, but if the rest of the rec looks fake, than it's just another nail in the coffin. They could always call to verify your recommender if they wanted to.
Also, keep in mind that
some schools have you explain why you picked this or that recommender on the actual online app form. So if that is the case, don't worry about explaining in it in optional essay - explain in the free form text box they provide you.
Respectfully,
Paul Lanzillotti
amba2013 wrote:
Hi,
My recommender has just left the firm. However, he was a senior chap and I have worked with him very closely for almost 2.5 years. He is ready to recommend me, but it will be from his personal id. School application forms state that "recommendations from gmail / yahoo ids might be subject to additional scrutiny". However, since he knows me well, I believe he is the best person to recommend me.
So 2 questions -
1. Can I explain my situation in the optional essay and will that solve the problem?
2. Any idea as to what kind of scrutiny do schools carry out on such recos?
Thanks!