Shadow/ Letter of recommendation help

[Forkit]

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Hey guys,

I have quite the dilemma here. I work at this medical clinic aimed at aiding poor people (90% of the patients are Mexican immigrants). I work about 5 hours a day, 4 days a week.

While I'm really enjoying my experience shadowing doctors, I dont think I'll be able to get a quality LOR, if I even manage to get an LOR. Every day I work with a different doctor. Additionally, all the doctors I work with are really old (60+). Even though I'm at the clinic 5 hours a week, these doctors work only 2-3 hours the entire day. Meaning, I really get 2-3 hours of quality shadowing time.

There is this doctor who is getting somewhat fond of me. He's a great doctor, but only works 3 hours a day on Wednesday. On top of that, he's 90 years old!! He is the only doctor I'm sure I'll be able to work with every week.

My plans of attaining an LOR is really dwindling. Can anyone relate to my situation? Any advice on how I can obtain an LOR can be highly appreciated. How can I build better relations with the doctors, and how can I ask for an LOR without making them feel used?

 

[DrMattOglesby]

To alleviate some tensions you may be developing from this situation--most medical schools will deem that experience you're chalking up by working in an underserved clinic as far more valuable than a physician's LOR.

If it really bugs you though...find some time on the weekend to shadow a doctor who knows beforehand that you are seeking to gain a letter for the purpose of applying to med schools.

 

[Dr Lyss]

Well I wouldn't let the doctor's age dismay you. He's probably more experienced at writing LORs & can write you a better quality one! I would hesitate to ask for an LOR from someone that doesn't know you well.

I would approach the doctor you feel most comfortable with and remind him of your desire to enter medical school. The ask if he would be willing to write you a strong LOR and discuss his experience working with you. If the doctor hesitates at all then say thanks anyway. You don't have to get a LOR from every EC you have or from a physician you shadowed (I didn't and I had no problems). Good luck!