Hey everyone, I'm planning to apply for medical school in the future, and I know I need to get a strong letter of recommendation from a non-science teacher. What type of non-science teacher should I ask, and how can I ensure they write a strong recommendation for me?
It's important to have a well-rounded application for medical school, and including a letter of recommendation (LOR) from a non-science teacher is a great way to showcase your versatility and skills outside of the sciences.
To choose the right non-science teacher, consider the following factors:
1. Relationship: Pick a teacher who knows you well, preferably someone you've had for an advanced or extended course. This better enables the recommender to speak to your strengths and character in-depth.
2. Subject relevance: Select a teacher whose subject has some relevance to the medical field or can showcase valuable skills for a future physician. For example, a literature or ethics teacher can speak to your communication, critical thinking, and moral reasoning abilities, while a psychology or sociology teacher could highlight your understanding of human behavior and social dynamics.
3. Demonstrated excellence: Ideally, choose a teacher from a class in which you have excelled or displayed significant improvement.
To ensure the recommendation is strong, follow these steps:
1. Give ample notice: Give your selected teacher plenty of time in advance to prepare the letter (at least one month). This allows them to carefully craft a strong recommendation without feeling rushed.
2. Provide context: Share relevant information, such as an updated resume or CV, with the teacher, so they have a better understanding of your background and accomplishments.
3. Discuss goals: Have a conversation with the teacher about your goals, motivations for pursuing a medical career, and any specific skills or experiences you'd like them to emphasize in their letter. This helps the letter align with the narrative of your entire application.
4. Offer assistance: If the teacher has any questions, make sure to be available for clarification or support. This could include providing resources or context about your target medical schools.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the non-science teacher you choose can provide a compelling letter of recommendation for your medical school application, showcasing the diverse range of skills and qualities that make you a strong candidate.
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