Getting LOR from a physician I shadowed long time ago

[johnnytheman]

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I shadowed an internist about 4 years ago during one summer, and I recently had a chance to meet him and ask him for a LOR so that I could update schools I interviewed at. I understand that it was long time ago, but he remembered me very well and seemed very happy to write me the letter. Assuming that it would be a strong letter of recommendation, how would adcom perceive this letter given that it's from someone I shadowed quite some time ago? Would sending this letter by any chance harm my chances?

 

[gmcguitar4]

No it will not harm you in anyway. There is a slight chance it might not help considering how long ago it was..Since you saw him recently why don't you shadow him a few more times or until the start of next application cycle and THEN ask for the letter.

 

[sector9]

Why do you want a LOR from a physician to begin with?

 

[johnisles2011]

Honestly, I had the opportunity to do something similar with a doctor I shadowed and researched with over a summer, and I chose not to. I'm sure he would have written me a supportive letter, but I don't think it's the same as a letter coming from a faculty.

I think pre-meds think letters from doctors are extra prestigious and good cuz... well, they're from doctors, but that's probably a bit of a misconception. I would go with a professor who knows you better, even if it's a history professor or something, as long as they can talk in depth about your personality and drive to learn. Maybe a faculty advisor for some project you work on or something?

I'm sure this doctor would write you a nice and supportive letter, but I suspect it would be something of a "stock" letter that isn't highly individualized.

I don't know though, maybe your relationship with him/her was much deeper than I'm getting.

 

[flodhi1]

Why do you want a LOR from a physician to begin with?

A strong Physician LOR will definitely strengthen his application.

 

[sector9]

A strong Physician LOR will definitely strengthen his application.

From a physician he shadowed 4 years ago? No.