LORs: Should I include resume in request email or after writer agrees?

[Tn615pride]

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I am going to ask the PI of the database I worked on for a LOR. I worked primarily with the research coordinator but I am confident the PI will agree to write me a letter without a second thought. Should I first send an email asking him to write the letter and then if he agrees send my resume and transcript? Or should I include both of those in the initial email requesting the letter?

 

[Govols22]

I would probably ask him in person. If not, ask him over email. If he says yes, then send him the information he needs. That's what I would do. But I think it would be best to ask in person.

 

[SasquatchEM]

I am going to ask the PI of the database I worked on for a LOR. I worked primarily with the research coordinator but I am confident the PI will agree to write me a letter without a second thought. Should I first send an email asking him to write the letter and then if he agrees send my resume and transcript? Or should I include both of those in the initial email requesting the letter?

Ask his assistant or whoever manages his schedule if you can meet with him for 20 min. If asked why just be straightforward and say it's regarding a possible letter of recommendation for medical school. Bring your transcript, resume etc in a folder for him. Be prepared to answer typical questions like why medicine etc. You should only ask for a letter through email if they know you very well, which it sounds like is not the case.

 

[KungFuPanda123]

Give the resume in a second email after he says yes

 

[Tn615pride]

Thanks for the input y'all! Unfortunately, I graduated in May and now live about 1000 miles away so in person isn't really an option. But I'll take yalls advice and send the first email and if he agrees I'll send the resume. I'm pretty sure he will say yes and then have the research coordinator write the letter for him. She and I are pretty tight so I think it will work out well!

 

[narvik2016]

Definitely send a polite request first. I am in the same position, living far away from everyone writing my LORs and this is how I did it. I also mentioned in the request email something like... "I am happy to send you some information that may assist you in the letter writing process"... meaning resume, brief explanation of motivations for medicine, AMCAS letter writing guide, etc.

Everyone has been really nice about it (and obviously understanding that we cannot meet in person to discuss the letter, haha).