LOR - request them now or later?

[ChinaDoll]

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Hey guys and gals...

I have an issue here:

I am transferring to another university this fall. I already finished two years of college so I will be a junior this fall!

In my first college, I have done tutoring (2 years) and TA (1 year) for student services. I actually tutored a lot of students with learning disabilities, which I think will look pretty good on my app. My boss at th tutoring place had said that they were more than willing to write me a LOR if I ever need one...Plus I pretty much know all the science department professors and have really good relationship with them ..they are all wiling to co-sign my LOR if I need one..

So now I am transferring...Should I ask for the LORs now since they still have fresh memory of me or should I ask for one 2 years later (I am planning to have a one year gap)...If I ask for one now and they do write me one...what should I do with it? I am afraid mayb med school is gonna look down on a LOR written 2 years ago..

Please give me some advice...you guys are the best!

 

[ChinaDoll]

anybody? help?

 

[OneMCATAway]

definitely get them now or soon but dont wait more than a year or two! try to find out if the school you are transferring to has a letter service, if they do you can send it there! its ok to wait a year to find out because your professors/boss will probably still remember you! =)

Also, I have heard a lot of professors are willing to update the letters later, but probably if there is more info to be added!

 

[qmcat]

I think it's best to get the LORs now. If the school you transferred to has a letter center/service, you can ask your LOR writers to send the letters there. If your school doesn't have a letter service, sign up for something like Interfolio so you can store your letters in there for several years until you want to use them.

 

[Baylor83]

Beware of professors and committee who tend to procrastinate.