Which Letter of Recommendation should I submit?

[FNP2B1210, MSN]

Hello everyone!

I am currently working on applications for direct-entry np/accelerated bsn programs. I have a few options for my LOR writers and would like opinions in regards to which would look best on my apps. Two that I will definitely submit are from my unit manager and former co-worker who is now a nurse practitioner. (I have been a PCA at a hospital for two years) I intended the last one to be from my Microbiology professor. I received an A in her course and she was also my co-op advisor. While at work today, a patient's daughter asked me if I needed a letter of recommendation because she is so impressed with how well I've taken care of her mother. She has been a nurse practitioner in an ER for many years. This has me thinking maybe it would be great to have a letter from a patient's perspective.

So, letter from a professor or patient?

The patient's daughter made it a point to tell me she writes great LORs. Mind you, I have been out of school for about 3 years now so I am a little concerned that the letter from my professor may not be as personal.

Thank you! )

[caliotter3]

Both?

[elkpark]

Admissions committees for graduate programs in nursing are looking for candidates who can be expected to be successful doing graduate level academic work. Clinical experience and glowing reviews from clients are nice, but don't outweigh considerations of applicants' academic potential. For that reason, I would definitely go with the former professor. You want to have at least one reference from someone who has experience with you in an academic setting and can speak to your academic ability and potential, and neither of the other two references you mention can speak to that. IMO, it would be a mistake to choose the NP, however good a reference letter she is capable of writing, over an academic reference.

And, unless, the school has asked for four references (which I'm guessing they didn't, since you mention two on which you've already decided and this, third, one would be your "last"), don't submit both. It would hurt you more than help you to submit more references than they requested. Dumb as it may sound, part of the application process is evaluating how well you read and follow directions. If they ask for three references, four will count against you. If they ask for a one page personal essay, anything longer than a page will hurt you more than help you, no matter how great that extra half-page is. :) Etc., etc.

Best wishes for your journey!

[FNP2B1210, MSN]

Admissions committees for graduate programs in nursing are looking for candidates who can be expected to be successful doing graduate level academic work. Clinical experience and glowing reviews from clients are nice, but don't outweigh considerations of applicants' academic potential. For that reason, I would definitely go with the former professor. You want to have at least one reference from someone who has experience with you in an academic setting and can speak to your academic ability and potential, and neither of the other two references you mention can speak to that. IMO, it would be a mistake to choose the NP, however good a reference letter she is capable of writing, over an academic reference.

And, unless, the school has asked for four references (which I'm guessing they didn't, since you mention two on which you've already decided and this, third, one would be your "last"), don't submit both. It would hurt you more than help you to submit more references than they requested. Dumb as it may sound, part of the application process is evaluating how well you read and follow directions. If they ask for three references, four will count against you. If they ask for a one page personal essay, anything longer than a page will hurt you more than help you, no matter how great that extra half-page is. :) Etc., etc.

Best wishes for your journey!

Realized I never responded to this. But, I took your advice and submitted a LOR from my professor. Thanks for your help!