NonTrad with a small problem... Any Suggestions?

[Ferrismonk]

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First, a little background info:

I graduated with my bachelor degree in 2001. I didn't do amazing or anything, but I wasn't really motivated either (GPA approx 3.0). Since then I've gotten an associate degree in an allied health field (GPA 3.8) and worked in a hospital setting ever since. I'm also an adjunct faculty at the local community college. My application really rests largely upon my MCAT score (29P) and my post-grad experience.

Now here's my problem:

I'm in the process of filling out my secondary apps right now and a few of the schools (PCOM and Pikeville for example) require that a science teacher or pre-med committee from my undergrad write a letter of recommendation for me. Assuming that any of my undergrad science professors even remember me, thier impression can't possibly be accurate or overwhelmingly favorable. Has anybody else been in this situation? Any recommendations how I should procede? I appreciate your help.

 

[noshie]

You should call the schools and ask what you can replace this with. Maybe a letter from someone from your work. Or an extra DO letter may suffice. Just call and ask, they try to work with applicants as much as they can.

 

[JonnyG]

First, a little background info:

I graduated with my bachelor degree in 2001. I didn't do amazing or anything, but I wasn't really motivated either (GPA approx 3.0). Since then I've gotten an associate degree in an allied health field (GPA 3.8) and worked in a hospital setting ever since. I'm also an adjunct faculty at the local community college. My application really rests largely upon my MCAT score (29P) and my post-grad experience.

Now here's my problem:

I'm in the process of filling out my secondary apps right now and a few of the schools (PCOM and Pikeville for example) require that a science teacher or pre-med committee from my undergrad write a letter of recommendation for me. Assuming that any of my undergrad science professors even remember me, thier impression can't possibly be accurate or overwhelmingly favorable. Has anybody else been in this situation? Any recommendations how I should procede? I appreciate your help.

unfortunately PCOM is very strick about this. At the very least you need a letter from your dean at the undergraduate school saying you graduated in good standing etc..... There are many threads about this. The school will give you more info but you won't need the LOR from a science professor (the deans letters are generic)

 

[koennen]

I would post this question in the Nontraditional Students forum. Or use the Search function in that forum. It's likely that others have been in similar situations.

 

[AustinFinklea]

I would say that trying to get a science professor LOR replaced by someone you worked with is equivalent to kicking a dead horse; it just wont happen. You must have your science LOR's, period. I dont know of anyschool that will change their policy regarding LOR's and who they come from.

I would contact some of your old professors, nonetheless. You never know until you try. Your post grad grades are great. You have a brilliant chance, if you get your apps in asap.

Good luck to you.

 

[mshheaddoc]

There are schools that will change their policy so I suggest that you contact the school and get the deal from the horse's mouth. I am having to do the same thing (but with non-science letter) and I was told there are ways to substitute.

 

[MaximusD]

Call each college to which you're applying. Ask them what they need and tell them what you can give them. Work out a compromise. It really isn't difficult... most schools, particularly DO schools, are flexible.

What you will NEED is that letter from the dean of the college which said that you graduated in good standing. Other than that they will most-likely work on what's acceptable e.g. letter from employer rather than science prof etc...

Best of luck!

 

[Ferrismonk]

Thanks All!

This information has been very helpful. I'll post what kind of response I get when I call the schools.😀

 

[weredonenow]

First, a little background info:

I graduated with my bachelor degree in 2001. I didn't do amazing or anything, but I wasn't really motivated either (GPA approx 3.0). Since then I've gotten an associate degree in an allied health field (GPA 3.8) and worked in a hospital setting ever since. I'm also an adjunct faculty at the local community college. My application really rests largely upon my MCAT score (29P) and my post-grad experience.

Now here's my problem:

I'm in the process of filling out my secondary apps right now and a few of the schools (PCOM and Pikeville for example) require that a science teacher or pre-med committee from my undergrad write a letter of recommendation for me. Assuming that any of my undergrad science professors even remember me, thier impression can't possibly be accurate or overwhelmingly favorable. Has anybody else been in this situation? Any recommendations how I should procede? I appreciate your help.

Trust me, don't waste your money. Apply to another school if at all possible. What they put the student's through is not worth it, go away.

 

[TerpDO]

hey there,

I read your post and understand your situation. I definitely know that getting letters of recommendations is a PAIN IN THE A$$ and was one of the tasks I disliked the most about apply to med schools because I had to rely on other people. However, when you look at the entire process, it is just another hurdle to overcome and if you are intent on entering med-school I am sure you can obtain those letters in the end. I totally don't agree with the previous post, especially if you like the schools you are applying to and not just applying to everywhere. As pre-meds we all have to jump through hoops and if you aren't willing to do eveything you can to matriculate then there are a dozen applicants ready to take your place. It seems like you have a plan already in mind so best of luck and let us know how it goes. I am sure sharing your experience will help someone down the road.

 

[DragonWell]

To add to the advice above, do whatever you need to do to get the letter, and do it pretty quick. Most schools are scheduling into Feb at least by this point. If for some reason things don't work out this cycle, next year apply early and I'm confident you will have multiple interviews.