Professor who I requested an LoR from told me to look for someone who knows me better, but would write me one if I couldn't find anyone I made a post yesterday regarding when I should send a professor a reminder regarding a LoR request. Well, he actually got back to me today and told me that (translated and paraphrased from Korean):
&quot;(small talk) I think it would be best for you to ask someone who may know you better. I'm afraid I may not know you well enough to write a detailed and strong recommendation letter. However, if you can't find anyone else I'd be glad to write one.
&quot;Since I don't know you that well, it would help if you sent me your CV, SOP, and a one-page document laying out what you want me to specify or emphasize.
&quot;Again, I strongly advise you to request a letter from a professor who knows you well, as that would lead to a stronger letter.&quot;
So yeah, it's not exactly an ideal response, but was expected. The problem I had is that I'm a MSCS student but am not originally from CS. Being busy with my own advisor and lab/projects has somewhat hindered me from becoming &quot;close&quot; with other professors. This particular professor I asked is one of the three who I've had interactions with a little more than the classroom level (I very briefly worked on a project with his lab mates, but it didn't turn into anything). The other two have stated they would write me letters already.
There is a postdoc in our lab who I've worked with, but I'd rather not ask a postdoc.
How negatively is this going to affect me? I don't think I really have a choice, and I don't believe this professor is someone who would write anything negatively about me, but I guess I would like some perspective from people who have been on both sides. Thanks.
If someone suggests you find another person to write for you it is advice you should take unless you have no other options.
The best letters come from people who know you well enough to speak both positively and enthusiastically about you and your prospects. This professor has some reservations.
But in the case that you really have no other options, then try to follow up with them. A mediocre letter might even be worse than no letter at all, but it is hard to say.