If you are planning on applying to PA school, it is important to start thinking about who you will ask to write your letters of recommendation. These letters are a key part of your application and can help set you apart from other candidates. When choosing who to ask, look for individuals who know you well and can speak to your strengths as a student and future PA.
Once you have selected your recommenders, reach out to them early in the process to give them plenty of time to write a strong letter. When you ask them, be sure to provide them with all the information they will need, such as your resume, personal statement, and application deadlines.
If you are unsure of how to go about asking for a letter of recommendation or what to include in your request, there are many resources available to help you.
Once you have gathered your letters of recommendation, be sure to thank your recommenders for their time and effort. A simple thank-you note is a great way to show your appreciation.
Step 1 – Name of the document
The very first thing to include in the letter of recommendation is a formal salutation. In other words, you should address the letter to the PA school admissions committee. For example, “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Admissions Committee.”
Step 2 – Introduce yourself
The second step is to introduce yourself. Include your name, title, and how you know the person you’re writing the letter for. For example, “I am Jane Smith, a family physician, and I have known John Doe for three years.”
Step 3 – State your relationship
After you’ve introduced yourself, it’s important to state your relationship with the person you’re writing the letter for. For example, “I am John’s preceptor,” or “I was John’s academic advisor.”
Step 4 – Discuss why you’re writing the letter
The fourth step is to discuss why you are writing the letter. For example, “I am writing this letter to recommend John for admission into the XYZ PA program.”
Step 5 – Outline the person’s qualities
The fifth step is to outline the person’s qualities. Discuss the qualities that make them a good fit for the PA profession. For example, “John is an excellent student who always goes above and beyond what is expected of him. He has a strong interest in patient care and is always eager to learn more. I believe he would be an excellent addition to your PA program.”
Step 6 – Summarize your thoughts
The sixth and final step is to summarize your thoughts. For example, “In conclusion, I highly recommend John Doe for admission into your PA program. He has the qualities that are essential for success in this field, and I believe he will be an excellent addition to your program.”
Step 7 – Thank the reader
After you have summarized your thoughts, it’s important to thank the reader for their time. For example, “Thank you for your consideration.” or “Thank you for your time and attention.”
If you follow these steps, you can be sure that you’ve covered all of the bases for a strong PA school letter of recommendation.
A physician assistant recommendation letter is most commonly used as part of the application process to PA School. Many programs require at least two letters of recommendation, and some may require three. These letters are an opportunity for individuals who know you well to speak to your strengths and qualities as a student and future PA.
If you have been out of school for a while, you may also need to provide letters of recommendation as part of your application. In this case, choose recommenders who can speak to your work experience and how it has prepared you for PA school.
When requesting a letter of recommendation, be sure to provide your recommender with all the information they will need, such as your resume, personal statement, and application deadlines. This will help them write a strong letter that is tailored to your specific application.
In general, a PA recommendation letter should highlight your academic achievements, clinical experience, and personal attributes. Your recommender may also discuss your motivation for becoming a PA and why they believe you would be successful in the role.
There is some information that should not be included in a physician assistant recommendation letter.
First, in order to avoid negative consequences, avoid asking your coworkers and friends to provide a letter of recommendation for you. This letter wouldn’t help the admissions officers evaluate your application and wouldn’t be valued by them.
Second, someone you don’t get along with can create a bad letter of recommendation for you. For example, if you would want a dean in a respected medical program to write a letter for you, but you know that they are not of the best opinion of you, you may not like the outcome.
Third, never make up lies about your abilities or write phony recommendations late.
Physician assistant recommendation letters are an important part of your application to PA school. Be sure to choose your recommenders carefully and give them plenty of time to write a strong letter. Thank your recommenders for their time and effort once you have gathered your letters. By following these tips, you can ensure that your letters of recommendation will help you stand out from the other candidates.