Why are recs absolutely necessary at some schools, while not expected at others?

[Hartofsec]

Originally Posted by amIblue?

I'd love to hear from some actives regarding how important they think recs are.

It might depend on which info on the rec -- the objective info (gpa, class rank, honors, service, etc), or the subjective parts (like a check in the box for poise or good moral character or whatever).

I feel that the actives may find the former more helpful than the latter (they creep facebooks for the latter, actually).