Letter of Recommendation from the Board

[UT2226]

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I just contacted a general surgeon that I would like to shadow. He also happens to be the vice president on the board of directors of my state school. I would very much like to get a letter of recommendation from this guy. I'll be shadowing him for at least 3 days. How would you go about getting a good letter from him?

 

[Josh7]

I just contacted a general surgeon that I would like to shadow. He also happens to be the vice president on the board of directors of my state school. I would very much like to get a letter of recommendation from this guy. I'll be shadowing him for at least 3 days. How would you go about getting a good letter from him?

Act like someone who has the potential to become a good doctor. I don't think that there's a secret way to securing a good LOR when you've only known someone for 3 days.

 

[cheechootrain]

I just contacted a general surgeon that I would like to shadow. He also happens to be the vice president on the board of directors of my state school. I would very much like to get a letter of recommendation from this guy. I'll be shadowing him for at least 3 days. How would you go about getting a good letter from him?

It's difficult to write a good letter of rec based on 3 days. But if he's on board with it, it wouldn't hurt. Just gauge how he reacts when asking. If he is hesitant, then quickly change your mind and thank him for the opportunity.

 

[UT2226]

Act like someone who has the potential to become a good doctor. I don't think that there's a secret way to securing a good LOR when you've only known someone for 3 days.

I'm just trying to get an opinion on whether it's a good idea to state that at the beginning, or ride it out, see how it goes, and ask at the end.

 

[Ismet]

I'm just trying to get an opinion on whether it's a good idea to state that at the beginning, or ride it out, see how it goes, and ask at the end.

If you're going to ask, ask at the end. Asking at the beginning would just be awkward and will give off the vibe of "I'm just shadowing you because you're an official at the school and I want to get in" (not saying that's your only goal, that's just what will be given off).

 

[La Presse]

3 days? Don't you think that is a little quick. Because of the length of time you shadowed him, the surgeon may deny your request. Just know how to proceed in the likely event that is may occur.


Remember that episode of Love Boat...

 

[mcloaf]

I have a lot of trouble believing that a letter from someone who has known you for three days will be given any weight whatsoever. If anything I'd think it might annoy adcoms since most schools clearly state letters should come from people who know you well. Do as you see fit.