Post-Bac LoR

[JanuaryJean]

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Hi all,

Any input would be appreciated. I'm was wondering if there is a difference for where you get your letters of recommendation from if you're a non-trad post-bac (I'm finishing up my last semester or 2 years). I've done some research on general LoR for normal applicants, and many of them recommend asking for letters from professors with whom you've done research or co-authored papers. Sadly, as someone who had no science at all in undergrad (majored in music) it was pretty much impossible for me to get into any kind of research during my two years of post-bac (I was turned down multiple times), and so I did not have as much exposure to my science professors as I would have liked.

I am getting a committee letter through my undergraduate school and have one very strong letter from the music department chair, and one very strong letter from my current boss at an IT firm whom I've known for several years now.

A couple questions:

1) How much would it hurt my application if I only had one LoR from a science professor. I really only know her more because I had both lecture and lab (lab was a small class) with her and she still recognizes me a year after I had her.

2) I also have a potentially strong letter that I could get from my other job working at a private ambulance, from the chief paramedic (basically my supervisor/boss). Would that be worth asking for? I was told to just get one work LoR by an advisor.

 

[caffeinemia]

It appears that you are a non-traditional applicant. This is important, as you have significant experience outside of academia that may inform your application.

It has been a number of years since I applied, but I do believe that most places require 3 letters, one of which should be from a academic evaluator. I think that it is fine to have only 1 letter from a science professor. I only had one, and it was never an issue. Additionally, letters from a music professor, ambulance supervisor, and IT professional might actually demonstrate that you are well rounded and function well in a professional setting.

Feel free to PM me if you have any other questions.