Is it alright to ask what the LOR said?

[nc2tarheels]

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I had 4 LOR's sent in (2 professors, 2 optometrists). Is it ok to ask to see what they wrote? Or is this a party foul? I have no idea what any of them wrote (I'm sure they were all fine), but just wondered if it was typical or out of the norm to ask. Thanks

Keith

 

[mintyjulep]

That is really tacky and presumptuous. I would say definitely don't do it. If they wanted to show it to you, then they would. I had one recommender do that. Otherwise, it's not up to you to ask.

 

[blackhole2]

It's weird you didn't see it. I don't see anything wrong with asking about the content.

 

[nicmc]

It is definitely NOT okay. It is tacky and presumptuous as a previous poster stated. Also, I had to send my letters through the premedical office at my undergraduate school. They require you to "waive your rights" to see the contents of the LORs from the professors. I believe you had the chance to waive your rights on OptomCAS as well, but I can't remember for sure. It looks better to waive the rights because they know that the LOR writer was speaking candidly. You really DON'T know that everything about you was positive in the letter.

 

[jayas0n]

do not do it. party foul to the max

 

[Mewcakes]

If you listed your old boss as a business reference, would you ask them what they said after they were called? The answer is a resounding NO. Major faux pas. Fox paws.

Similar to listing a reference, hopefully you picked them because they liked you/you liked them and you know they would be able to say good things about you. If they DID say something bad, then perhaps you have some growing to do and you will benefit from the extra time if you are not admitted.

 

[nc2tarheels]

i'm 100% sure there was nothing negative said.