Getting a LOR from a doctor

[Monkeymaniac]

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I shadowed a doctor during the summer, and that ends next week. I asked him to write me a LOR, and he said he would gladly do so, and he also asked me if there is any particular thing that I want him to put on the letter, and I said I would think about it over the weekend. I am thinking about asking him to write that I was a dilligent worker, devoted to and passionate about learning medical work from him, and that I was very interested in it. And also that I was a keen observer and intelligent. For those of you who already have gotten good LOR's from doctors, what did the doctors put on your letters? I would appreciate any help. Thanks!

 

[Dr. McDreamy]

I shadowed a doctor during the summer, and that ends next week. I asked him to write me a LOR, and he said he would gladly do so, and he also asked me if there is any particular thing that I want him to put on the letter, and I said I would think about it over the weekend. I am thinking about asking him to write that I was a dilligent worker, devoted to and passionate about learning medical work from him, and that I was very interested in it. And also that I was a keen observer and intelligent. For those of you who already have gotten good LOR's from doctors, what did the doctors put on your letters? I would appreciate any help. Thanks!

What are you getting the LOR for? I would think he should reference whatever the letter is addressing. Anyway, if you're planning on just stowing the LOR till you need it, I dont think this is a great idea. Why not just ask for it when you need it? I think programs think it mighty strange when they get a LOR that has a date on it from 2 years ago. Makes them think it's difficult for you to get LORs.

just my 2cents

 

[ANCAdoc]

I'd steer clear from any LOR writers who ask you what to put in it. If they know you well, then they shouldn't have to ask you what to say. Leads me to think they are fluff letters and committees can spot those miles away.

 

[Monkeymaniac]

It's a general question. I am planning to apply in June 2007. Do I send the composite recommendatino letters to AMCAS (primary application), or do I need to send them to medical schools along with secondary applications?

And when do you usually ask for your recommendation? Some poeple say wait 'till few months before I apply, but I think that's not a good idea, since, by that time most of poeple whom one would ask for LOR might forget about his accomplishments in class or working environment. That's just what I think. Thanks.

 

[vwhan]

It's a general question. I am planning to apply in June 2007. Do I send the composite recommendatino letters to AMCAS (primary application), or do I need to send them to medical schools along with secondary applications?

And when do you usually ask for your recommendation? Some poeple say wait 'till few months before I apply, but I think that's not a good idea, since, by that time most of poeple whom one would ask for LOR might forget about his accomplishments in class or working environment. That's just what I think. Thanks.

1. I think you send the composite to AMCAS and they will distribute the letter, but please double check this as it has been several years since I've gone through this process.

2. It's always best to ask for LOR shortly after you are finished or towards the end of finishing your time with a doctor. That way, as mentioned above, things will be fresh in his/her mind the writer sits down to formulate your LOR.

3. Instead of telling him vague, positive remarks about your performance, as you mentioned in your original post, I would think of very specific examples.

Good luck.