I shadowed a doc for 2 days nearly a year ago, and I need an LOR to apply. Would it be awkward asking or should I just go for it? I'm pretty shy and I don't know how to approach this.
Nervous Asking for LOR
- Thread starter Two Sides
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Would be hard for him/her to really write anything of substance considering 1.) the short duration of shadowing and 2.) How long it has been.
Are you applying this cycle?
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Are you applying this cycle?
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I am applying this cycle, he barely knows me, I need it to apply to ARCOM and UIWCOM, and there aren't many DO's around my area.
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You can ask, but I dont think it'd be unreasonable for him to say no (what is there for him to say really? How could he sag much?).
Can ask, you are probably late at this point to shadow another and try to get a letter.
I expect > 2 days is more the norm for a letter, but I'm not sure. I was in a fortunate position and my DO letter came from a personal mentor, who was also my physician, and I have taken care of his patients.
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He knows my father since he's a doc, but I need a DO LOR and there is like one other in the hospital.
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Ask in person. Explain some schools require it and you'd really appreciate it.
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I will, man. I have a feeling I'll see his secretary who'll take the message.
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Yep, this^. I would try to explain your situation IN PERSON, so he/she knows your super serious about your request and that you're really dedicated to becoming an osteopathic physician.
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I would frame the question like this, "honestly, given the short amount time we've spent together i would like to know if you would feel comfortable in writing me a strong LOR that can attest to my personal qualities as a medical school applicant."
This offers physician a quick and valid way of declining just in case he feels uncomfortable with the idea.
If they say no, then you already know that the letter wouldn't have done you any favors. If he/she says yes, then you know the letter will be strong enough to include in your application.
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Hey I was in your position before. I too shadowed a DO for only 2 days (approx. 9 hours) and I was so scared to ask for a LOR. However, eventually I just asked anyways and explained my situation and the doctor understood and was willing to help.
