Family Medicine Residency Selection & Career Advising
Sample Letter of Recommendation - Rated Poor

July 12, 2000

Dear Residency Program Director:

I want to recommend a truly outstanding young woman for acceptance into your residency program. Cicely Jones was number one in her class at the University of Oklahoma and is very articulate. She is interested in both family practice and mission work.

I would really appreciate you giving her a personal look. I think she would be a distinct credit to your program.

Please let me know if I can answer any questions you might have or if there is further information I can give you.

Sincerely,

Brian C. Tuttle, M.D.

NB: This letter was rated poorly because the writer clearly didn't know the student. Remember to ask for letters from people you worked with enough that they really know you. Provide them with the recommended outline, especially inexperienced faculty and/or faculty from other specialties who may not be familiar with the type of information family practice residency directors are seeking.