Letters of Recommendation

You will need LoRs for ALL of the programs you apply for.  Follow stipulations set forth by programs.  Most programs want two to three letters in addition to the MSPE (Dean’s Letter).  Many ask for a letter from the Department Chair (or Chair’s designee).

How to ask for an LoR.  Ask the potential LoR writer “May you please write for me a strong and positive LoR?”  You want a letter that convincingly endorses your candidacy.

Identify potential letter writers early.  If on a rotation with a faculty member from whom you would like an LoR, introduce the idea while on the service.  Ask the faculty member to consider writing an LoR on your behalf when you are ready to apply to residency programs.  If the faculty member indicates willingness, state that you will make an appointment to meet before the letter is written.  If you want someone to write an LoR with whom you are not currently in regular contact, call the office and ask to schedule a meeting to discuss your request.  Meet in person rather than communicate via email.  Bring your CV and a draft of your personal statement to the meeting.

The best sources of letters are faculty members who have worked with you in a meaningful daily capacity.  They are in the best position to know your abilities, personality, and professionalism and to be able to reflect most effectively upon your potential as a resident.

Once you have submitted and finalized your letter writers in MyERAS, you will be provided a “Letter Request Form.” You will present this form to the individuals from whom you are requesting LoRs.  This letter request form will provide the details needed in order for your letter writer to load the letter through the LoR Portal. This form also includes a statement indicating that you waive your right to inspect the contents of the letter.  Not all letters have to go to all programs. 

One LoR needs to be from someone in your field of interest, but, unless specified otherwise, not all letters need to be from a single specialty.  Being able to recruit positive endorsements from several specialties may show the breadth of your capability.

It is better to have letters from Chairs, Program Directors, Clerkship Directors, and Professors than from part-time faculty or resident physicians.  And while it is better to have LoRs written for a specific specialty, it is acceptable to have non-specialty LoRs written.  If considering multiple specialties, ask for individual LoRs for each discipline.