Definition of Non-sci LOR

[Sleight]

Ok so this might be a silly question but I am confused about whether the "non-science" letter is from ANYTHING in your life that is not science based (like my volunteer experience, work etc.) or if it is supposed to be from a non-science professor...I have searched other threads and seen it referred to in different ways.

Also, is there a list out there of which schools want which type of letters (sci prof, MD, etc) or do I just have to look at each school's website?

ONE more thing...if it is ok to get a letter from anyone who is outside of science, would my volunteer supervisor (a child life specialist) at the hospital be ok? I volunteer in the PICU so it is sort of science but...I dont know...I figured I would ask.

Thanks!!

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[ksmi117]

The science, non-science LORs refer to professors. An old list of what schools want is attached to this post. It may have changed but it'll give you a basic idea. You can have more letters besides the professor letters and your volunteer coordinator would be a good choice if they know you well and have seen you being helpful and dedicated and such.

 

[Sleight]

So what is the standard for what letters you should have? I have heard you should have:
2 letters from science professors
2 letters from physicians
1 non-science letter...but is this the non-science professor or non-science anything because I keep hearing mixed things! There are a couple of threads that say one way and some that say the other way

Is there any way to find a newer list? How would you go about finding that?

 

[JJMrK]

So what is the standard for what letters you should have? I have heard you should have:
2 letters from science professors
2 letters from physicians
1 non-science letter...but is this the non-science professor or non-science anything because I keep hearing mixed things! There are a couple of threads that say one way and some that say the other way

Is there any way to find a newer list? How would you go about finding that?

I think the best way to figure this out is to call the school and ask. I know someone who got into a school that requires a non-sci LoR without such a letter. I believe this person had a letter from a former supervisor of a non-sci related job.

So as far as I know, some schools are sort of lax about it. I'm sure there are strict ones out there as well though.

 

[robrobbberts]

The science, non-science LORs refer to professors. An old list of what schools want is attached to this post. It may have changed but it'll give you a basic idea. You can have more letters besides the professor letters and your volunteer coordinator would be a good choice if they know you well and have seen you being helpful and dedicated and such.

Hmm.. what if you get a committee letter? Do they still care about the individual letters you gave to the committee?

 

[ksmi117]

Hmm.. what if you get a committee letter? Do they still care about the individual letters you gave to the committee?

I think for most, if not all, schools, a committee letter will fulfill whatever requirements they have, even if the letters in the packet aren't what they require.