By Landyn Goodwin
When it comes time to apply for optometry school, one of the major components of your application is the letters of recommendation. Most schools require at least one letter from a professor or academic advisor, as well as another letter from a doctor of optometry. However, this optometrist cannot be a family member. This can be one of the most difficult portions of the application to complete if relationships haven’t been built throughout undergrad. It is also important to build your network before, during, and after optometry school. Many jobs in the optometry field are filled by word of mouth and personal connections. This article will explore tips and tricks for getting letters of recommendation from professors and optometrists, as well as how to network.
Getting a Letter of Recommendation From a Professor
A recommendation letter from your professor can greatly impact your academic journey to optometry when it comes to applying to school as well as scholarships. Here are a few tips on how to approach your academic letter of recommendation:
- Choose the right professor
- Pick someone who knows you well. The professor needs to be able to speak to your strengths, skills and character. It’s most common to choose a professor you’ve had for multiple courses or who has overseen research you participated in. Another common option, if you went to a big university, is to choose a professor you had for a smaller course or a discussion-based course that was more personal.
- Pick a professor relevant to your goal. For example, a biology professor would be more relevant to an optometry school application than a philosophy professor.
- Build a relationship before asking; this can be the most difficult part when attending a large university, so here are some tips:
- Engage in the course. It’s important to attend lectures, participate in discussions and complete all assignments on time. A professor is likely more willing to write a letter of recommendation for a student who was engaged and proactive in their course.
- Seek out office hours. Attending office hours for the professor shows initiative and can help build a relationship.
- Request the letter of recommendation in a clear and respectful way
- Give them enough time. It is considered respectful to provide ample time to complete a letter of recommendation. On average, you should give your professor at least 3-4 weeks to complete the letter.
- Explain your goal and be specific. Make sure your professor understands the importance of the letter of recommendation and how it impacts your long-term goals. Providing them with relevant information about your experiences, in the form of a rrésumé or CV, can strengthen their letter of recommendation.
- Follow up and thank them
- Send a reminder if necessary. Professors have other things going on in their lives as well. It’s acceptable to gently remind them as the deadline approaches.
- Thank them. Always express your gratitude for their time and support of your goals, regardless of the outcome of your application.
