A question for aPD, MCL and others

[afoofa]

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[Frugal Traveler]

It sounds somewhat like you answered your own question... it appears you have similar clinical letters. The non-clinical LOR would give a good longitudinal view (that you can keep it together for a year and impress someone vs. pretending to be excited for 4 weeks on a rotation). Residency is like a job, so a letter showing you did well for a year could be advantageous.

It also depends to which field you are applying.

Also, read each program's website and see what letters they want... most programs are the same but you never know until you visit their website.

I would advise also seeking other opinions to the pros and cons, but the above are what I heard stated from a program director at my school.

 

[afoofa]

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[afoofa]

am applying for neurology and prelims IM.

 

[mcl]

Would many programs take the non-clinical LOR against me? Would it negatively affect my chances?

Mileage may vary program to program. I don't think it would be a case of non-clinical letters being held against you--they just may not give the programs the type of information about you they are looking for.

Personally, I like clinical letters from multiple specialties because I am trying to assess the strength of your performance in that arena and your ability to work with the healthcare team. I like letters that tell me that you had great rapport with families or that you managed patients well and participated on rounds, or that you were dependable and trustworthy and prompt with your notes, etc. The non-clinical letters don't seem to tell me as much and generally leave me with a feeling of "that's nice," rather than a "Wow! I'd want to work with that person."

But you ultimately have to go with what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. If you think the non-clinical letters allow you to be seen in the best light, you should probably go with those.

 

[afoofa]

Thank you mcl for your insightful reply.

 

[NotAProgDirector]

Mileage may vary program to program. I don't think it would be a case of non-clinical letters being held against you--they just may not give the programs the type of information about you they are looking for.

Personally, I like clinical letters from multiple specialties because I am trying to assess the strength of your performance in that arena and your ability to work with the healthcare team. I like letters that tell me that you had great rapport with families or that you managed patients well and participated on rounds, or that you were dependable and trustworthy and prompt with your notes, etc. The non-clinical letters don't seem to tell me as much and generally leave me with a feeling of "that's nice," rather than a "Wow! I'd want to work with that person."

But you ultimately have to go with what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. If you think the non-clinical letters allow you to be seen in the best light, you should probably go with those.

Completely agree. If you do decide to submit a non clinical letter, no more than one. Three clinical letters is highly suggested.

 

[afoofa]

Thank you aPD, mcl and traveler for your responses.

I guess I will go with the clinical letter 🙂