plasticookies Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 Hey, sorry if the answer to this question is really obvious, but my research into this hasn't turned up straight answers. I know that for OMSAS, the LOR includes "rating" type of form. When applying to American schools, is there anything similar to this or is it just a straight letter? Also, if it is just a straight letter, can anyone point me to a list of topics or characteristics that should be commented on? Oh..one more thing. I see that most schools require 1-2 letters from a professor in science. Is it normal that these references are mostly a verification of academic performance and not really character references? If I add another 1-2 letters that can fill in the character gaps, do you think that would be okay? Thanks, everyone. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rmitch8 Posted March 25, 2010 Report Share Posted March 25, 2010 There is no rating form for American schools, just the straight up letter. It's better if you know the 1-2 science profs well and they can comment on both your academic performance and character. It's fine to satisfy the school requirements, but then make sure those character letters are good enough to make up for what may be dry letters from science profs who don't know you very well. Keep in mind that some schools' definitions of "science" and "professor" are quite loose. You can potentially get away with using a psych clinician who occasionally does research to fill this req. Rack your brain and try to think of a "science prof" who can comment on more than just academic performance... If that doesn't work, see if you can schedule a meeting with one of the science profs and talk to them for a bit. I did this with a science prof I didn't know very well. I talked about why I wanted to be a doctor, where I was applying, why I was asking him, etc. I'm pretty sure he ended up writing me a great letter. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
plasticookies Posted March 26, 2010 Author Report Share Posted March 26, 2010 Thanks for that reply. I know that some schools ask that the science prof be someone who has actually taught you. Do you know if that is the general rule of thumb when they ask for a science or academic reference? Would a PI who hasn't taught you be ok? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
keith_015 Posted March 26, 2010 Report Share Posted March 26, 2010 In some cases. Schools will tell you what is acceptable. VCU is one I can think of that mentions use of research refs who didn't teach you. But it is general rule that they have taught you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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