Presented by Eric Lai

Why so important? Required for professional schools –Medical school: 3 required 2 science faculty, 1 non-science faculty –After admissions committee views scores: Usually look at recs next Required for prestigious summer jobs/internships Shows people that you’re more than #’s

What they convey? Positive character attributes: –Responsible (no late hw, never misses class) –Effective communicator (ask meaningful questions, quality written work) –Motivation (understand healthcare, always try) Extracurricular Experiences Sometimes even rank in class!!

Know your teacher… Go to office hours frequently –Minimum: 3-4 times a semester –Topics to discuss: difficult class material, study suggestions, their background (city, family, undergrad experience, research), opportunities on campus Ask & answer questions in class –Makes you stand out, shows you’re genuinely interested in the class subject Do NOT suck-up! (see straight through you)

Know your teacher (cont) “I’m shy and don’t like asking questions” –Alternatives: Take advantage of office hours (one on one time) Get to know your TA  joint recommendations P/F seminar (smaller discussion setting) Undergraduate research  mentor Bag lunches/talks  Dean Laude

Rec. Specifics Request recs well in advance –Preferably 3 weeks and in person (appointment) –If applying in summer, request recs end of spring semester at the latest Give professor a folder with: –Resume –Personal statement (clearly explain your motivation) –Unofficial transcript –Stamped envelope –Waived rec. form Always waive your right of access to view rec –Professor gives more honest opinions

Rec. Dilemma! “Eric, I have a problem. Who should I request a rec from?” –Professor Smith is really famous and I aced his class but I never went to his office hours –I got a B in Professor Jones’ class, but I attended his office hours frequently –My answer: Professor Jones, of course! Request from those who know you best~ Committees don’t appreciate name-dropping