Question regarding LORs

[yugimuto]

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I am applying to this upcoming match cycle, and I've worked with a fellow at my institution for a couple of years. I've gotten a chance to work with them in clinic and do several research projects together. I feel like I've done strong work with them and think they could attest that in a LOR. However, I know that LORs should never be signed off from a fellow.

They're going to become a faculty member (at different institution) starting in July. Since they are an attending when I officially submit my application, would it be acceptable to ask for a letter from them, and they could sign off as an attending? Or, is it not acceptable since my work with them was when they were a fellow?

I know this is a nuanced question, but thanks for your help!

 

[Doctor Bob]

Easiest option: have the fellow write it and have an attending at your institution put their name on it. This happens all the time. Bonus points if they can get the program director or department chair to put their name on it.

More challenging option: in July, do some correspondence with them about your research projects and finish getting something submitted. Then they can say they worked with you in an attending capacity. In their letter they can say they've known you for years, first in their capacity as a fellow then as an attending. The letterhead will confuse people (because they'll be sending it from an instituion that you have no connection to), but if they write it right it won't matter.