New rec letters?

[UCSBro]

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As a reapplicant do I need to get updated rec letters if my relationship with my letter writers has not gone anywhere in the past year?

 

[SecondTimesTheCharm]

Good question, I'm in the same boat as you and I couldn't find anything after a quick search. I'm worried that "re-using" old letters (i.e. the date on them won't be 2014) is frowned upon, even if I haven't had any interaction with that person recently.

 

[99445]

Have the same question. Is it the norm to get an updated LOR?

 

[AliciaAccepted]

As a reapplicant do I need to get updated rec letters if my relationship with my letter writers has not gone anywhere in the past year?

Yes! You do need to get updated letters of recommendation. Some admissions committee members actually get angry if letters are more than a year old. It is best to get new letters each time you apply.

Even though there may not be any new developments in your relationship with the letter writer, you can provide them with an updated resume/CV, bullet points about your latest activities, or any other updates that you would like for them to include in your letter. Getting updated letters demonstrates to the admissions committee that you are dedicated to improving your application in every way possible and that you are serious about applying to medical school. It takes a lot of time and energy to get updated letters and they know it.

For more information on letters of rec, I am attaching a link here. I wish you all the best!

 

[Donald Kimball]

I scheduled meetings with professors who wrote me letters last time, as well as new professors, to go over my application and pick their brains on what to do differently next time around, and I also asked them for new letters. Most of these professors sat on graduate admissions committees and were able to give me some insights into what they like to see from applicants. Their process is certainly different, but common themes are applicable across professional school admissions.

If anything, meeting with them again and detailing your reapplication experience is a "new development" in your relationship, and they can certainly speak to your tenacity, determination, perseverance, resilience, etc.