Letter of Rec from a friend...

[jellybean13]

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So this is kind of random, but I was just wondering on everyone's thoughts on getting a letter of recommendation from a physician who is also a close personal friend... We have worked together for 2+ years and are fully able to separate our personal and professional relationships, and I never even thought about asking him until he offered.

Are there some kind of ethical questions surrounding this? I know he would write a true and honest representation of my ability to become a physician, but having your MD letter come from the person you drink and play poker with on Friday nights.... it feels well, strange to me.

I would love input from others on this

 

[DancingThruLife]

My $0.02:

Presumably, this physician won't be commenting on your awesome nights of poker and booze. He will be commenting on your intellectual capability and compassion towards patients. Therefore, I don't think you should have any concerns in terms of letter content.

I understand your concern about ethics and such, but you have to realize that the admissions process is a game that is being played by everyone applying. There are some people who have bff's (well, maybe not bff's, but you get the idea) pulling for their files in the admissions commitee, or putting in a good word for them, or applicants will write the LOR's themselves because the physicians only have enough time to sign it, or what have you. It happens more frequently than you think.

I would say, gratefully accept his offer and kindly remind him to keep it professional. Should be a really good letter!

 

[WeAreNotRobots]

sounds like an awesome situation.

 

[jellybean13]

sounds like an awesome situation.

Yeah more and more I am thinking I need to STFU and go with the flow... haha. My tend to second guess and analyze everything is going to drive me crazy throughout this process.

 

[Helen Wheels]

Since he knows you in a professional capacity (you worked with him for two years) I think it is fine. He can discuss what he knows about you from work. So, go for it. If he were just a friend you played poker with I would certainly say forget it.