[stuartcr]

This professor probably has a good reputation, but is hard to get an A from, as indicated by his requirements. I think the kid is trying to get a freebie recommendation.

[Catspaw]

In order to get the freebie recommendation, he would've had to have taken the course in the first place and had gotten an A. I can't imagine going to a prof for a letter of recommendation if I hadn't taken the course.