How to ask for LORs when it's been years?

[fourandtwo]

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I've been out of school for a while, and I know I'm not the only one. How did/do those of you who have been in this situation go back and ask your professors for letters of recommendations?


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[Eccesignum]

I've been out of school for a while, and I know I'm not the only one. How did/do those of you who have been in this situation go back and ask your professors for letters of recommendations?


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How long is a while? Three years, you'll probably get some willing to write for you. Ten years is a different story.

In the event that it's been a while but still reasonable, contact them and explain the situation. Offer to send your personal statement, resume, or anything else they feel they might need to get a better sense of you.

Be sure and note that you need strong letters of recommendation, not simply "Fourandtwo was in my class and did well and stuff." I sent all my LOR writers this from the AAMC website: https://www.aamc.org/download/332578/data/lettersguidelinesbrochure.pdf , which will help them understand what makes a solid letter. Be prepared for some people to say they don't feel they can write you one, and that's fine. Lukewarm letters will do nothing for you.

 

[gamieg]

yeah, it really depends on how long it's been and your relationship with those professors beforehand.
I'd recommend just being honest and upfront about it, explain your situation and where you are in life, and having backups in case a few letter writers fall through.

 

[gallons]

you just ask and be honest about how you feel about asking. No point in ignoring the obvious.

 

[Dullhead]

Great post but if its don't apply or two "was in my class and did great" letters, the latter is preferable. You can overcome "was in my class and did great" with strong stats and ecs you can't overcome no letters

This is where I am. I show up every class, do my work diligently, get that A (well, except OChem) and go my way. I am an introvert and don't typically get into friendly chit chat with the instructors. Likely my letters are going to be the "was in my class and did great" type, but I really have not much choice at this point.

 

[futuremdforme]

I would use the min number of academic letters and try to use more relevant ones. Honestly the personality to come out of it is more important in reading a letter. The adcom knows you got an A- they have your transcript. I've read crappy LORs from people who don't know the applicant (in non-med context) and they're not very good. The people who turn you down are doing you a favour.