Specific USUHS question

[MoosePilot]

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I have a real specific question or regarding the application process to USUHS.

I graduated college in 1996. I don't have any letters of recommendation from professors. I have a letter from my commander and two from docs I had the opportunity to shadow (thanks again, Rob). Will that cut it or would it be worth busting my butt to get a letter or rec from some professor that doesn't really remember me, but might write me a letter with the right inducement?

Did any other non-trad applicant have a similar situation and how did you solve it?

 

[denali]

I was a 1994 grad and I knew I would need new LORs--one of the reasons I went back to school before applying to medschool. My packet of LORs consisted of 2 letters from my then 2 most recent raters (field grade hospital administrators), 1 from my research PI, and 2 LORs from a biochem professor and anatomy professor. I submitted 0 letters from ugrad.

 

[Heeed!]

I have a real specific question or regarding the application process to USUHS.

I graduated college in 1996. I don't have any letters of recommendation from professors. I have a letter from my commander and two from docs I had the opportunity to shadow (thanks again, Rob). Will that cut it or would it be worth busting my butt to get a letter or rec from some professor that doesn't really remember me, but might write me a letter with the right inducement?

Did any other non-trad applicant have a similar situation and how did you solve it?

I, too, graduated in '96. I had 0 LORs from my undergrad institution. I picked up one from my OChem instructor at the local Jr College.

 

[helo doc]

I went a bit overboard a got one each from my current CO, previous CO, undergrad prof (had him for 3 different classes, hadn't seen him in 7 years), a more current prof (O-chem prof during post-baccalaurete work at local college) and a physician. There's no right or wrong answer to how many LOR's and from whom but a good recommended mix would be academic, medicine and military (in no specific order of importance). Combine good LOR's, decent MCAT's and outstanding previous military service and you've done all you can do to get an interview.

 

[MoosePilot]

I went a bit overboard a got one each from my current CO, previous CO, undergrad prof (had him for 3 different classes, hadn't seen him in 7 years), a more current prof (O-chem prof during post-baccalaurete work at local college) and a physician. There's no right or wrong answer to how many LOR's and from whom but a good recommended mix would be academic, medicine and military (in no specific order of importance). Combine good LOR's, decent MCAT's and outstanding previous military service and you've done all you can do to get an interview.

What do you think about good MCAT, good previous military service, and no academic LOR? How anal are they about that one category of letter? Because I'm active duty and it's a little busy right now, it's going to be tough to get one. I might get one from my immunology correspondance course and I might be able to remind one of my ugrad profs who I am (maybe with a case of beer?), but I'm not sure of that.

 

[Croooz]

Moose,
Why not call USUHS directly and ask?

 

[MoosePilot]

Moose,
Why not call USUHS directly and ask?

Well, I've spoken with Mrs. Stearman about the letters of rec. She said if I couldn't get them, then I couldn't get them and submit what I could. I couldn't sense whether she meant all right in that it was a minor detail or all right as in they wouldn't completely throw it away, but probably wouldn't consider it much, either.

 

[Croooz]

I don't think the letters are a big deal. I was told since I'm currently taking the pre-med classes that the letters would be expected from me. However, for others who took the classes years ago it wouldn't be an issue. I would call and get it straightened out. If you want PM me the number and I'll ask so she doesn't blacklist your app... 😀

 

[helo doc]

In my opinion, I think your good MCAT's should suffice by showing off your academic prowess. Just make sure your other LOR's are strong - which it sounds like they should be. Good luck.

 

[MoosePilot]

I don't think the letters are a big deal. I was told since I'm currently taking the pre-med classes that the letters would be expected from me. However, for others who took the classes years ago it wouldn't be an issue. I would call and get it straightened out. If you want PM me the number and I'll ask so she doesn't blacklist your app... 😀

Thanks for the offer, but I'll just clarify. I don't think they're the type of admissions office to mind some questions.