ERAS question

[dj_smooth]

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I will be going for the 2005 match. I am currently doing my third year in Engalnd and was thinking about LORs. If PDs don't want foreign LORs, I must get them during my 4th year. Now, seeing that I won't start electives until next summer, I am worried that I won't be to get anything in time for ERAS next year. I am considering peds, ob/gyn, and FP currently. Is it unwise to try and get LORs here in the UK or should I delay ERAS stuff until I can get one in the US?

 

[Jingojango]

Hi DJ:

Dunno much about out of country rotations but I'm a 4th year groping my way thru ERAS now. The consensus seems to be to get things in ASAP. To be honest I don't think programs are too concerned where your recommendations come from-at least for the initial screening/interview invite part of your application process.

I would probably get as many LOR's, whereever they may come from, and send the application in on Day 1!!! You can always supplement your application later on with US LOR's.

Best of luck!

 

[rirriri]

hey,

first of all, you have plenty of time for the 2005 Match, if that is what you are going for. getting US LORs will be an advantage to you, but I don't feel it is entirely necessary for you to get ALL US LORs.

For example, if you will end up sending 3 LORs to programs next year in the match, I think it would be fine if you had 1 UK LOR and 2 US LORs. The match doesn't begin til September of next year, and you said you are starting your electives next summer....so that gives you a few months to get 1 or 2 LORs in.

Personally, even if you had just 1 strong US LOR, it would be pretty good and still a step above the people with no US LORs applying.

cheers

 

[dj_smooth]

At least i have somewhere to start now.

 

[Winged Scapula]

If you do your electives next summer and ask early, there will be plenty of time to get your LORs. Remember, you don't have to wait until all your LORs are in to apply through ERAS and programs don't necessarily wait until the letters are available to download your file and even offer interviews.

Most program deadlines aren't until after November 1 so your letter writers should have plenty of time.

BTW, I disagree with the sentiment that US program directors don't care about where your letters are from. IMHO, it is much more valuable to have a LOR from a US physician who is familiar with US medical students and what it takes to be a physician in this country. However, that said a weak letter from ANYONE isn't going to help your application much. Better to have a strong one from a UK physician if that's what's best for your application.