Timing of Shadowing / LOR

[elec_engineer]

I'd like to shadow a dentist to get a better idea of what it's really like from the other side of the chair. From what I've learned here, this kind of experience is also something that the schools like to see in an application.

Due to my current situation I would be ready to apply in 2011/2012. Since this is so far in the future, would it make sense for me to shadow now and get a LOR with a 2008 date, or should I leave it for later? I wouldn't expect anyone to write a letter for me years later, that just doesn't make any sense.

I do want to shadow now, or in the near future, just for personal reasons and to make sure that I am making the right choice. But I also see how it would look strange that my letters of recommendation are so old. Maybe I could shadow one doctor now, just for me, and shadow a different one later for purposes of a LOR. This is not very efficient, but is the only way I can think of solving that problem. I do plan on shadowing some specialists, over extended periods of time. So this would actually show a progression, which seems like a good thing, and I could get a letter from those willing to write one as I go.

Any thoughts? Is having an older recommendation a bad thing? Should I do it closer to application time?

Thanks.

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[ummjoey]

i personally think schools like to see newer recommendations.......

with that said, you can shadow now. you only need like a total of 50 hours of shadowing. after you had enough shadowing, start working as an assistant. just ask the dentist if you can help out for free. who can resist free help? just keep on assisting for free at the dental office until you apply and when the time comes as for a LOR.

i would suggest shadowing different dentists. you can also shadow some specialists.

then pick one you would like to work for.

 

[SanOnofre2002]

Maybe do some shadowing now, and then when it's closer to application time shadow with the same guy and ask for your letter then. Otherwise, if you think your going to get a really good letter now, it's probably worthwhile to get it even if an adcom might not like the older date on it. Have you thought about where the letter would be stored during this time? I don't know how long Interfolio holds letters, probably at least a couple of years. My schools letter service does 5 yrs, check yours out to (even if you've graduated).