Recommendation from family member?!

[nooyyllib]

Would a recommendation from a family member help at all? I know this may sound like a stupid question.....but my uncle is the minister of finance for a country..probably third in line for the presidency (I'm really sorry I'm not trying to brag at all). 

Would getting a recommendation from him help me at all with my chances in admissions?

[commscholar]

Well, if he can leave out that you're family, great.  but if he can't, or if it's too obvious, don't use it.  However, ask him if he could get someone he knows to write one for you.

[EarlCat]

That might be something he should disclose in his letter--possible conflict of interest.  Also, from what I understand, admissions people aren't terribly impressed by the prestige of recommenders as much as by what the recommenders say about you.  Perhaps an employer or professor who knows you well would make a better letter.