LOR question...from microbiology prof?

[dexadental]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

Okay well my microbiology professor seems really cool and teaches the class in a real exciting manner, I am sure I'll get to know her pretty well. Problem is, I'm applying for this upcoming cycle...so how do I request an LOR from her after only being in her class for 4 classes so far into the new semester? I've told her I am predental and will be applying this year and she even has a PhD in biochemistry, my major, so we have a little in common in terms of interests. How should I approach her for an LOR...or future LOR?

 

[favabean]

Ask for help in her course and meet with her after class. Do this several times and she will see that you are very determined to do well in her course. After several meetings and perhaps after a couple of tests (so she can see how well you are doing) ask. Asking right away will get you no where. Trust me. I had a prof (ironically a micro prof.) who siad no to a reference letter because he only knew me 4 weeks. By the end of the semester, after he got to know me, he wrote a letter (one that mentioned how enthusiastic I was about his course because I would always meet with him to get extra help).
Anyone, even profs, appreciate getting to know someone before doing them a favour. Let her get to know you well before you ask. Good luck!

 

[Dr.Smiley-OR]

Okay well my microbiology professor seems really cool and teaches the class in a real exciting manner, I am sure I'll get to know her pretty well. Problem is, I'm applying for this upcoming cycle...so how do I request an LOR from her after only being in her class for 4 classes so far into the new semester? I've told her I am predental and will be applying this year and she even has a PhD in biochemistry, my major, so we have a little in common in terms of interests. How should I approach her for an LOR...or future LOR?

You have plenty of time because AADSAS will not accept anything from applicants for next cycle until May/ June. By then you almost finish her class. And keep going to her office and chat with her. Let her know who you are.

 

[spc213]

You can look at this one of two ways -- I have used both methods.

1) Use the methods mentioned above (well stated, guys). Do your homework, study, etc., and get to know the prof. When the time is right, you can ask for a rec. If you have put in the time and established a rapport, a prof will be happy to help. This will also give you time to get over the "honeymoon" phase of the first few classes and figure out if this person is someone you want to ask to help you get in to school.

2) Another method I have used successfully is to be up front with the professor and tell them what you are working toward. If you lay your cards out on the table and tell them that you are working diligently to get in to dental school and that you would like to work toward "asking them for a rec in the future," they may very well want to help you work with them to achieve that goal. Use it as an opportunity to lay out a game plan to perform for him/her, so you know exactly what you have to do to "succeed" in their eyes.

Remember this: many profs take recommendations seriously, but don't let that deter you from asking -- they are extremely flattered when you ask. If you can get a prof to "buy in" to your application they will take a personal stake in whether you get accepted or not. They often see it as a reflection upon themselves.

Also, don't forget thank you notes and to keep them updated on your status. I now have a short mailing list of the prof's that have helped me in the process that I have kept posted on interviews and acceptances.

Feel free to PM me if you have questions.

Good luck! 👍

 

[bouncy_ball]

You could also put together a portfolio together to give to your teacher a better idea of who you are. it should outline your accomplishments and/or statement of purpose. make sure it's neat, organized, b/c it will reflect you.