Include reference letters with resume, even if not requested?

Nurses Career Support

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Hi All,

I'm a Registered Nurse applying for a hospital internship. I'm putting together a nursing internship application for Peds/NICU. The guidelines request that you submit a cover letter, resume & your certifications. I'm wondering if I should include reference letters from my current supervisor, an MD- as well as my preceptors from nursing school (peds, nicu & L/D), which will be a total of 4 letters.

These are my thoughts:

1. Include there reference letters- this is the only chance to "wow" the recruiter and it might make me stand out from the rest. Plus, the reference letters solidify my experience and nursing care outlook.

OR

2. Don't include it because it looks like I don't know how to follow directions and there will be too much fluff to read with my application and my cover letter & resume should speak for themselves. It also gives a chance for the recruiter to use it against me if they see something they don't like.

Any feedback or comments would be GREAT!! Thanks in advance. :heartbeat

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Specializes in Best care giving possible.

IMHO you are always better off being over prepared than under prepared. Therefore, including references with a resume if they are qualified can't hurt and can only help. By qualified, I mean from Physicians or senior RN's rather than from a friend of yours. (not suggesting you would do that, just saying)

Hope this helps.

Natasha

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Thanks Natasha for your response.

I have decided that I am going to include them. I am including letters from my relevant preceptors as well as an MD I work with. I've decided through my email application is my one chance to get an interview and then seal the deal with them in person.

I'll keep you updated. Thanks again! :)

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