Who makes a good letter of recommendation writer for the residency application?
A. The best letter writers are those faculty members who know you best and can strongly support your application. Clinical letters are preferred in residency applications. Research letters can sometimes be used as supplemental letters but not as primary letters. The best time to ask for the letter is in person in June or July of your fourth year. If you have additional questions about the Residency Application Process, please contact your Society Career Advisor or Dr. Herbert Abelson.
A. The best letter writers are those faculty members who know you best and can strongly support your application. Clinical letters are preferred in residency applications. Research letters can sometimes be used as supplemental letters but not as primary letters, unless you’re applying to residency programs that have a research track. Letters should come from attending physicians – not residents. If the faculty member did not offer to write the letter, you should ask if they feel comfortable writing you a strong letter of recommendation.
Related Questions
- If I send application material ahead of time (e.g., letter of recommendation, transcripts, GRE scores), how long do I have to submit the application itself before the material is discarded?
- Who makes a good letter of recommendation writer for the residency application?
- How Do I Get a Letter of Recommendation Five Years After Graduation?
