hey all...well..here we go with the fellowship applications and all the fun that comes with it...
Anyways, just had a quick question for anyone re: LORs. In reading other posts, it is clear that the calibre of who is writing the LORs are important. Having big names write letters is obviously important...
BUT...have a little dilemma here...would you rather have an average LOR from a big whig or a strong LOR from no name person?? 😕😕
Your input is appreciated!
When choosing letters, keep in mind the GI world is small, and it seemed to me when I interviewed that most everyone knew eachother (at least with the more academic programs). So, I always assumed any letter writer that is "well known" is likely a phone call or email away. Aside, remember this, because you don't want to get caught embellishing things during the interview; be positive/confident, but don't lie (duh).
With that said, names do carry weight. So, an ideal letter would be a strong letter from a well known GI. But, if you are worried that your "big whig" may have submitted a suspect letter (ultimately unless you read it, you'll never know), you may want to supplement this with other stronger letters from these "no name" people. You do have (usually) 4 letters that you can submit, so if you're lucky enough to have options, I would say it's probably worth submitting the "big whig" average letter PLUS your strongest "no name letter" to compliment. But go with your instinct.
Also, you probably are already doing this, but make sure to talk to the GI people at your program (especially current fellows, your medicine program director, and even the GI program director if you know them) about your options for advice as well. They'll probably know more about this, even perhaps inside info about your letter writers (such as the "big whig" always writes great letters regardless, etc...)
Good luck!
