Letters of Intent

[Overfloater]

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I've heard a lot of people talk about writing letters of intent to schools, especially from those on waitlists. Can anyone give me any examples or a rough idea of how a letter of intent should read?

 

[GoSpursGo]

This is a topic that has been asked and answered many times over the years, and I'm sure that it would be much more efficient for you to use the search function at the top of the page to track down an answer to your question than to wait for people to reply (especially on a Saturday 🙂 ).

Briefly, an LOI goes in depth about why both you would make an excellent match at your top-choice school and why that school is ideal for your own medical career. This goes beyond regurgitating your qualifications; you need to make specific connections between their programs and your application/career goals. Conclude with something along the lines of "If accepted, I will definitely go to your school."

Good luck 🙂

 

[rayraythemd]

Does anyone know if there is some sort of form letter that I can use to get me started on writing an letter of intent? Just to give me an idea of how to construct it?

 

[NSDQ]

Does anyone know if there is some sort of form letter that I can use to get me started on writing an letter of intent? Just to give me an idea of how to construct it?

For the actual physical structure of the letter, I would mirror the format used by the school to notify you of your waitlist spot or a letter from a different school that accepted you.

 

[chad5871]

I guess that since I've been rejected at Columbia I'll post my letter of intent here. Caveat emptor: this letter didn't work for me!

Dear Dean Frantz and Members of the Admissions Committee:

My name is chad5871 and I recently interviewed at your institution. I write to inform you that if given the opportunity, I will attend Columbia University for my medical education. Though I have been admitted to several other medical programs, my interest in Columbia has not wavered, and I will gladly withdraw all outstanding applications upon acceptance to your university.

My interest in Columbia is driven by two factors—educational quality and extracurricular opportunity. First and foremost, Columbia offers a world-class medical education. From the number and diversity of research opportunities to the demonstrated reputation for producing highly skilled clinicians, Columbia provides its students with unmatched resources and development. I am particularly excited about the curriculum's new focus on collaborative learning. As a preceptor during my undergraduate studies, I was able to mentor fellow students and was even trusted with lecturing a 200-student class. I can bring this experience to Columbia, and enhance the collaborative process by providing leadership in the small group setting. I have also been impressed with the Arnold P. Gold Foundation and the University's corresponding emphasis on humanism in medicine. Throughout my post-graduate work as a research assistant, I have witnessed the importance of empathy and compassion in the patient-physician relationship. I have also observed the unfortunate health disparities within certain demographics, and I am highly interested in becoming involved with the Hispanic-American population. With course offerings in medical Spanish and student organizations such as Cultura and Columbia Medical Student Outreach, I can think of no better place than Columbia, and no better location than Washington Heights, to work with these patients.

Columbia's academics are arguably surpassed only by its culture. After visiting the campus, it is plain to see that the Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons is more than just the students that comprise it. It is a rich and diverse community, overflowing with actors, athletes, musicians, and other curious individuals, all working towards a common goal. The philosophy that incoming medical students should not leave their personalities at the door is important to me, and it was refreshing to discover that the University shares this view. With a rich history of encouraging students to pursue interests outside of medicine, Columbia has consistently produced well-rounded graduates confident to handle any aspect of life. By attending Columbia I can follow my passion for medicine while remaining active in the performing arts. I can draw from my extensive experience in professional and community productions to be a valuable member of the Bard Hall Players, and contribute to student singing groups and other artistic organizations. I would like for nothing more than to become a part of the Columbia medical community, and to add my name to a growing number of proud alumni.

Thank you again for inviting me to interview at Columbia. The College of Physicians & Surgeons has been and continues to be my first choice for a medical education, and I sincerely hope to be a member of the class of 2013. Should you have any questions or need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

chad5871
AMCAS ID: ********

Hope that helps!