Multiple Professors or Pre-Health Committee LORs

[deltaJ]

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So, along the way through my undergraduate years, I've become close to a number of professors--science and non-science--which means I could receive a total of about 5 individual LORs. However, my university does have a pre-health committee that does LORs, but I honestly feel like the professors I know would give a more comprehensive evaluation. Some medical schools say that if there's a committee, use it.

But here's my question: should I go the committee route, or use the professors I know?

 

[Pusheen]

Is there a way your committee could incorporate letters from your professors into the overall evaluation? That's what some schools do

 

[deltaJ]

Hmm, I didn't know that was possible. I'll check into that, thank you!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using SDN mobile

 

[RogueBanana]

Most Committees require you to submit 5 LORs to them. Then they review them, compile them into one evaluation, and send that comittee LOR to your schools. It is quite literally a compilation of:
1- Multiple Letter Writers
2-Committee Interviews
3-Advisor opinions/observations of you
4-Your academic & disciplinary record at your school.
5-Your activities as an undergrad (volunteering, clinical, etc....)

These letters are helpful because the committee will not endorse you unless you have stellar letters and good grades. It prevents a prof from sending a negative letter and tanking your app. It also gives you a mini check by admissions professionals as to weather you are in a good spot to apply or should wait and improve a portion of your app. Plus, the letters come from people who know how to spot good candidates for medical school. Its different from xyz biology professor saying "he was a great bio student, is definitely smart enough 2 b doctor."

If you have the ability, use a committee letter.

 

[BKNbkn]

The best letters are from individuals who know you best. That being said, Pusheen's above advice is recommended if your Committee allows this.

Of note, some secondaries will ask why you opted to do individual LORs in lieu of a Committee letter.