I was at an internship for 2 months before finding a full-time job in a different office but the same field as my internship. My question is this -I have a very good friend who was a higher up in that office. She wasn't my direct supervisor, but she supervised a lot of the work I did in the office. She can attest to my work ethic, the way I interacted with colleagues, my passion for my work, and I have also played on her office softball team for the past 4 years so she can talk about my conduct outside the office (if that is ok?)

My other option is a direct supervisor from 5 1/2 years ago who lives in another state (I won't be able to shape the final product as well as I would with my other option.) She also sounded busy when I asked her to be my recommender.

Thoughts? Does anything about the first option raise any red flags? Thanks!

When choosing a recommender, you should opt for the individual who can discuss your past performance and future goals in detail. Usually, that person is your direct supervisor. However, it sounds like this might not be the case for you. Your friend can write your recommendation but make sure it is professional and does not get too personal. Your leadership, problem solving and team building skills at work are definitely more important than those same skills on the softball field.

So, the short answer is yes - your friend can write the recommendation if it is professional and addresses the topics that are relevant to MBA admissions.