Thinking about becoming a doctor is a huge step, and getting into medical school is the next big challenge. One of the most important pieces of your application is a strong letter of recommendation. Many students wonder about asking for a medical school letter of recommendation template to help them get the best possible letters. This guide will walk you through why it's a good idea and how to do it effectively.
Why Using a Template Helps
When you're asking for a medical school letter of recommendation template, you're not asking your recommender to fill out a form. Instead, you're providing them with helpful information so they can write the most compelling letter for you. Think of it as giving them a roadmap to highlight your best qualities. The more information you provide, the stronger and more personalized their letter will be.
This "template" is actually a packet of information you prepare. It typically includes:
- Your resume or CV.
- A copy of your personal statement.
- A list of the medical schools you're applying to and their deadlines.
- Specific qualities or experiences you'd like them to highlight.
- Any forms they need to fill out.
Providing this organized package makes it much easier for your recommender. Instead of trying to remember every detail about your time with them, they have a clear overview. This helps them focus on writing a thoughtful and specific recommendation.
Here’s a quick look at what you might include in your information packet:
| Your Information | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Academics | Grades in their class, specific projects you excelled in. |
| Extracurriculars | Your role in clubs, volunteer work, research. |
| Personal Qualities | Teamwork, leadership, perseverance, critical thinking. |
Asking Your Professor After a Great Semester
Subject: Letter of Recommendation Request - [Your Name] - [Your Graduation Year]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to respectfully request a letter of recommendation for my medical school applications. I truly enjoyed your [Course Name] class during [Semester/Year] and learned so much. My performance in your class, particularly on the [Specific Project/Paper], is something I'm very proud of, and I believe you could speak to my [mention 1-2 qualities like analytical skills or dedication].
To assist you, I have attached my resume, my personal statement draft, and a list of the medical schools I am applying to with their deadlines. I would be happy to provide any further information or meet with you to discuss my aspirations. The deadline for submitting letters is [Date].
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Asking Your Research Supervisor
Subject: Recommendation Letter for Medical School - [Your Name]
Dear Dr. [Supervisor's Last Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my medical school applications. My time working in your lab on the [Research Project Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date] was incredibly formative. I particularly valued the opportunity to [mention a specific skill learned, e.g., develop my troubleshooting skills or understand experimental design].
I have attached my resume and a brief overview of the medical schools I am applying to, along with their submission deadlines. I would be grateful if you could highlight my [mention specific research-related qualities like attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, or scientific curiosity] in your letter. Please let me know if you require any additional information or would like to schedule a brief meeting.
The first deadline for submission is [Date]. Thank you for your guidance and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Asking a Mentor or Advisor
Subject: Medical School Recommendation Letter Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Mentor's Name],
I hope you are doing well. As I begin my applications for medical school, I would be honored if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation on my behalf. Your mentorship has been invaluable to me, especially during [mention a specific time or project where they helped]. I especially appreciate how you helped me understand [mention a specific insight or lesson].
To help you write your letter, I've attached my resume, a draft of my personal statement, and a list of schools and deadlines. I would be very grateful if you could comment on my [mention personal qualities like resilience, empathy, or leadership potential]. Please let me know if you need anything else from me. The earliest deadline is [Date].
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Asking a Supervisor from a Volunteer Position
Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Medical School Applications - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor's Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my medical school applications. My experience volunteering at [Organization Name] as a [Your Role] from [Start Date] to [End Date] was a significant part of my journey toward medicine. I learned so much about [mention a key learning, e.g., patient care, community health needs, or effective communication].
Attached are my resume and a list of the medical schools I am applying to, along with their deadlines. I would appreciate it if you could speak to my [mention qualities like compassion, reliability, or ability to work with diverse populations]. Please let me know if you need any further details. The submission deadline for most applications is around [Date].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Asking a Supervisor from a Clinical Experience
Subject: Recommendation Request - Medical School - [Your Name]
Dear Dr. [Physician's Last Name] / Mr./Ms. [Supervisor's Last Name],
I am writing to request a letter of recommendation for my medical school applications. My time shadowing you at [Clinic/Hospital Name] has been incredibly insightful and has solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine. I particularly valued observing [mention a specific type of patient interaction or medical procedure].
To help with your letter, I've included my resume, my personal statement draft, and a list of medical schools with their deadlines. If possible, I would be very grateful if you could comment on my [mention qualities like professionalism, eagerness to learn, or observational skills] during my time with you. Please let me know if you need any additional information. The submission deadline is [Date].
Thank you for your mentorship and for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Asking Someone You've Worked With Closely on a Project
Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Medical School - [Your Name]
Dear [Colleague's Name],
I hope you're doing well! I'm applying to medical school and would be incredibly grateful if you would consider writing a letter of recommendation for me. Working with you on the [Project Name] at [Organization/Class] was a highlight of my [experience]. I learned so much about [mention a skill or aspect of the project].
I’ve attached my resume and a list of the schools I'm applying to with their deadlines. I'd be really thankful if you could touch upon my [mention qualities like collaboration, communication, or problem-solving] during our project. Please let me know if you need anything else. The first deadline is [Date].
Thanks so much for considering this!
Best,
[Your Name]
Asking for a medical school letter of recommendation template isn't about making things easy for you by getting a pre-written letter. It's about providing your recommender with the tools they need to write a powerful, detailed, and personal letter that truly reflects your potential as a future physician. By being organized and thoughtful in your request, you significantly increase your chances of receiving the strong recommendations that medical schools look for.