Asking an OD for an LOR

[millieelaine]

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My application is almost set except for one thing: I have not asked an OD for a letter of recommendation. I shadowed at a NECO affliated clinic for 10 hours, and I really liked the OD that ran the clinic. The last time I shadowed at the clinic was a month ago, and I am heading back to school soon. Do you think it is okay to ask her for a LOR? I shadowed at other practices, but no other place stood out to me as the clinic did. I have read on here that you should shadow for 40 hours before asking. Thoughts?

 

[foreseen]

I shadowed for only a day before asking for a lor, she seemed happy to write one. She runs a very busy practice so she probably preferred to not be shadowed for an extended amount of time.

 

[Commando303]

For how long, altogether, did you shadow? Also, totally, how many optometrists did you shadow?

 

[foreseen]

For how long, altogether, did you shadow? Also, totally, how many optometrists did you shadow?

I shadowed only one, and only for a couple of days (about 6 hours), but I wear glasses so I have a lot of experience with optometrists. I think the optometrist I shadowed got the idea that I knew what I was talking about so she was willing to write one. But I'm sure it depends on the individual so I would definitely speak to the OD about it, there's no harm in asking. good luck!

 

[Commando303]

Thank you.

 

[millieelaine]

I shadowed for 10 hours at this one particular practice. Good news though, I did get the letter! Now I just need to retake the OATs on Sept 25th!