Letters of recommendation are one of the most important components of a job or internship application. They provide insight into your clinical abilities, problem-solving skills and personal qualities. What’s more is they carry the weight of the practioner’s reputation
Note: Most internship programs require 1-2 letters of recommendation
Who should I ask for letters?
- IPPE Preceptors
- Preceptors whose specialties are related to your career areas of interest
- Preceptors who have worked with you most closely on research and/or projects
- Preceptors who are sure to give you the most positive and personal feedback
- Pharmacists who have directly observed your clinical work
- Pharmacists with whom you have done research
But don’t ask…
- Friends who are pharmacists*
- Family members who are pharmacists*
- Residents
*Unless you have worked with them extensively in a research/clinical capacity
When should I ask for a letter?
- Ask for the letter at least 2 weeks before the deadline.
How should I ask for a letter?
Be sure to include relevant information such as:
- What you are applying to
- To whom the reference letter should be addressed
- Link to the application form
- Bullet points of specific topics the recommender should talk about in the letter
- Instructions for the delivery of the letter (Do they send you a signed copy to you directly or submit it via email, web form, etc.)
Consider sharing the following as well:
- Any letter of intent or statement of interest that you prepared for the application
- A copy of your most recent CV and/or resume
Additional Resources
Lisa Vandervoort, Pharm.D., a clinical lecturer and regional coordinator, discusses letter of recommendation in this video. You can download Dr. Vandervoort’s slides.