I want to give pbear19 some support
Recs are VERY handy- they will make the whole experience a LOT easier. BUT, I know for a fact that NOT every girl going through recruitment at Mizzou has recs to all, or any, of the chapters.
Recs will help get you past "paper cuts" but, in the end, it really does come down to your personality and your conversations.
Are they helpful? yes. Is Mizzou uber-competitive? yes.
Are you DOOMED without them? no.
There are 15 wonderful chapters at Mizzou. Not every one of the 1700 + girls going through recruitment has recs.
Trust me.