Advice on Choosing a Second Science LOR

[squabblingduck]

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Hi everyone,

I’m applying this upcoming cycle and need advice on selecting my second science letter of recommendation (LOR). I’ve read that 3–5 letters are ideal, typically including two from science professors and one from a non-science professor.

Here’s where I’m at so far:

• Science Letter 1: professor of an upper-level neuroscience class
• Non-Science Letter: professor of a language class
• PI Letter: my PI who has supervised my research for 2 years now

For my second science letter, I’m debating between two options:

1. Professor 1: They supervised an independent research class (technically a science course under the neuroscience department) that I completed in my PI’s lab. I know they would write a strong letter, but I’m unsure if their role as more of an advisor meets the "science professor" requirement.
2. Professor 2: I had them for a biology class last year and have stayed in touch. While I think they’d agree to write a letter, I’m not confident it would be as strong as Professor 1’s.

Would you recommend I go with Professor 1, Professor 2, or ask both for letters?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

 

[Mr.Smile12]

On the merits, take your pick. Otherwise, which one do you think knows you better?

A Strategic Guide to Letters of Recommendation - SDN

The Student Doctor Network provides free tools, resources, and advising services to help students become health professionals.

www.studentdoctor.net

 

[AJS59]

I say letter 1, better connections

 

[squabblingduck]

Thanks for the suggestions! I was moreso worried whether Professor 1 would meet a requirement for a letter from a professor who taught me a science class, since I was doing my independent research with my PI under his supervision.