A Vet School Letter of Recommendation is a document authored by a mentor or superior who can attest to an applicant’s capabilities and experiences relevant to veterinary medicine. Typically written by someone who knows the applicant well, like faculty instructors or veterinarians, the letter provides credibility to an application by detailing the applicant’s qualifications through the eyes of someone who has directly observed their work and character.
All recommendation letters for veterinary schools must be submitted electronically via the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS), adhering to specific deadlines and guidelines.
Why It’s Important
A veterinary school letter of recommendation significantly enhances your application as it:
- Provides a professional endorsement of your capabilities and character. These letters offer a firsthand account of your performance and potential in the field of veterinary medicine. Given the competitive nature of veterinary school admissions, where acceptance rates at top schools can be as low as 10 to 15%, a strong recommendation letter can be a decisive factor in your application.
- Adds a personal testament to your dedication and passion for veterinary medicine. This personal endorsement helps the admissions committee envision how you might contribute to and benefit from their program.
Who to Request
Choose recommenders who are well-acquainted with your work ethic, philosophy, and professional conduct.
Consider the following categories to ensure a well-rounded representation of your capabilities:
- Professional Mentors: These are people who have directly supervised your work and can attest to your skills and dedication. A vet with whom you have worked, especially in a clinical setting, is an ideal letter writer. If you have held a significant role in a non-veterinary setting, a supervisor from this position can discuss your transferable skills and work ethic.
- Academic References: These should come from professors who have taught you in relevant subjects (e.g., a veterinary or scientific course), know you personally, and can comment on both your academic performance and your potential as a veterinary student. Avoid choosing professors from unrelated fields or large classes where interactions were minimal, as their letters may lack the personalized depth that admissions committees value.
- Veterinarian References: A letter from a vet college professor or a well-established veterinarian can significantly strengthen your application. These individuals are familiar with the expectations of veterinary schools and can provide credible endorsements of your suitability for the profession.
In addition, try to provide a well-rounded selection of individuals to offer a more compelling and engaging portrayal of your capabilities. While having strong letters solely from veterinarians may not negatively impact your application, showcasing your skills and attributes across various settings can provide a comprehensive view to the admissions committees.
How Many Letters Needed?
Most veterinarian schools require at least three letters of recommendation, but the VMCAS allows you to submit a maximum of six letters.
If you submit more than three, certain educational institutions might require you to specify which particular letters you want them to consider in their supplementary application.
Below is a list of veterinarian schools in the US and the number of recommendation letters they require:
- University of California, Davis: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian
- Colorado State University: Three recommendations; one by a veterinarian and the other two from academic or professional sources is highly recommended
- Cornell University: Three recommendations with one from a veterinarian and one from your advisor or a faculty member who has taught you
- Ohio State University: Three recommendations, with at least one from a veterinarian
- North Carolina State University: Three recommendations; two from veterinarians or PhD scientists with whom the applicant has worked in a veterinary or research setting is highly recommended
- University of Pennsylvania: At least three recommendations with one from a faculty member, one from a veterinarian, and one from any field of your choice(though another vet or science academic source is recommended)
- University of Florida: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian
- University of Georgia: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian
- University of Wisconsin-Madison: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian
- Texas A&M University: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian (note that they use TMDSAS instead of VMCAS)
- Auburn University: Three recommendations with one from a veterinarian and the other two from an employer (maybe second veterinarian but does not have to be) and a professor or advisor who is familiar with your academic work
- Iowa State University: Three recommendations; at least one from a veterinarian is strongly encouraged
- Purdue University: Three recommendations, with one from a veterinarian
- University of Minnesota: Three recommendations; at least one from a veterinarian is strongly recommended
- Michigan State University: Three recommendations, with one from a veterinarian with whom you have shadowed, assisted, or worked
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign: At least three recommendations with one practicing veterinarian familiar with you and one professor or instructor familiar with you
- Washington State University: Three recommendations, with one from a veterinarian
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Tufts University: Three recommendations, one from each of the following areas:
- A faculty member who taught you a course in your major or who taught you in a science course;
- A pre-veterinary, pre-medical, or pre-health professions committee representative, or from a dean, advisor, or second faculty member as described in #1 above; and
- A veterinarian or research scientist with whom you have had considerable experience.
- Kansas State University: Not specified on the Admissions page
- Virginia Tech: At least three and up to six recommendations; letters from at least one veterinarian and academic advisor is recommended
- University of Missouri: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville: Three recommendations preferred
- Louisiana State University: Three recommendations with one from a veterinarian; one from a veterinarian, one from an academic source, and one from an employer are recommended
- Mississippi State University: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian who is listed in one of your experience categories on your VMCAS application
- Oregon State University: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian with whom you have had significant contact
- Tuskegee University: Three recommendations with two from faculty members and one from a veterinarian
- Oklahoma State University: Three recommendations, with one from a veterinarian with whom you have worked
- Texas Tech University: Three recommendations, with one from a veterinarian (note that they use TMDSAS instead of VMCAS)
- Western University of Health Sciences: Three recommendations; at least one from a licensed veterinarian is recommended
- University of Arizona: At least three and up to six recommendations with at least one individual who can speak to your professional (not personal) interactions/experiences with animals
- Midwestern University: Three recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian
- Lincoln Memorial University: Three recommendations with one from a college professor, one from a veterinarian, and one from a previous or current employer or supervisor
- Long Island University: Three recommendations
How to Request
Consider the following when approaching potential letter writers:
- Arrange a brief meeting to make the request respectfully. Explain to them how their recommendations could positively influence your application.
- If they agree to write the letter, provide them with the necessary information. This includes:
- Your CV or resume;
- Your transcripts and other academic achievements; and
- A draft of your vet school personal statement.
- Introduce the submission guidelines. If your letters have to be submitted electronically via the VMCAS application, inform your recommenders that they will receive an email link to the recommendation portal where they can complete and upload their letter.
- Ensure they submit their letters by the specified deadlines. You can check the “Check Status” tab in your VMCAS application to track the progress of your recommendation letters (if applicable).
- Express gratitude after they submitted the letters. This can be done with a simple thank-you note or email.
How to Write
A letter of recommendation should generally be structured into three main parts:
- An introduction that establishes the writer’s relationship with the candidate and the purpose of the letter;
- Two to three body paragraphs that elaborate on the candidate’s qualifications and achievements; and
- A conclusion that wraps up the recommendation.
It should ideally be one page long and sufficiently support the evaluations you provided on the VMCAS evaluation form (if applicable).
Step 1: Introduction
Here are some key points for writing the introduction of a vet school letter of recommendation:
- Begin with a formal salutation, such as “Dear members of the admissions committee.”
- Elaborate your relationship with the applicant, including how long you have known them and in what capacity. Note that the VMCAS requires you to complete a relationship information field in the system prior to the recommendation letter section, so you should elaborate on the nature of your interaction with the applicant in the letter instead of merely restating your relationship.
- If applicable, briefly mention your qualifications and experience in the field of veterinary medicine or related areas to establish your credibility as a recommender.
- Express your enthusiasm and support. Use positive and sincere language to express your confidence in the candidate’s abilities and potential as a future veterinarian.
- Establish a tone of professionalism, respect, and genuine admiration for the applicant.
Addressing the Letter
If you are using VMCAS to submit the letter, avoid addressing it to a specific institution, as the same letter will be sent to all schools the applicant is applying.
Step 2: Body Paragraphs
Based on the VMCAS guidelines, here are some pointers on what you may include in your 2-4 body paragraphs to ensure the letter is comprehensive and compelling:
- Highlight Two Key Strengths: Identify and elaborate on two of the applicant’s most significant strengths from the Likert Criteria. For instance, if the applicant excels in empathy and oral communication, describe specific instances where these traits were evident. For example, you might mention how their empathetic nature and effective communication with pet owners eased the animals’ stress during treatment.
- Address Areas for Improvement: Discuss any areas where the applicant could improve, along with their awareness of these areas. This shows a balanced perspective and highlights the applicant’s self-awareness and willingness to grow.
- Demonstrate Commitment to the Veterinary Profession: Provide examples of how the applicant has shown a dedication to veterinary medicine. Highlighting their passion and long-term commitment can be persuasive. For example, you might describe their volunteer work at an animal shelter where they demonstrated reliability and leadership.
- Illustrate Interpersonal Skills: Describe a situation where the applicant showcased effective interpersonal skills. This could involve interactions with peers, staff, or clients. Emphasize qualities like interpersonal relations, professionalism, and emotional stability. For instance, recount how they resolved a conflict between team members during a group project.
- Include Additional Observations: Mention any other characteristics or observations that highlight the applicant’s suitability for veterinary school. The goal is to present a well-rounded picture of the applicant, emphasizing their strengths while acknowledging areas for growth.
Additionally, try to tailor the content based on your relationship with the applicant. If you are an academic reference, you should highlight the applicant’s critical thinking skills, learning aptitude, and academic intelligence. If you are a practicing veterinarian, you should focus on the applicant’s passion for veterinary medicine, their competence in handling animals, and their attentiveness and inquisitiveness during practical experiences.
Step 3: Conclusion
Conclude the letter with a positive and supportive tone. Summarize the candidate’s qualities and potential as a future veterinarian in your conclusion. Convey your confidence in the candidate’s ability to excel in veterinary school and make significant contributions to the field.
Vet School Letter of Recommendation: Examples
Example 1: Professor Recommending Student
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
It is my pleasure to recommend Aleksandre Philips for admission to your veterinary school. I have known Aleksandre for the past three years as his biology professor at XYZ University. Throughout this time, I have witnessed his remarkable academic abilities and dedication to the field of veterinary medicine, making him an outstanding candidate for your program.
Aleksandre’s critical thinking skills are exceptional. In my Advanced Genetics course, he demonstrated an impressive ability to analyze complex genetic data and apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. For example, during a research project on genetic mutations in animals, Aleksandre developed a novel approach to data analysis that significantly improved our understanding of the subject.
In addition to his academic strengths, Aleksandre exhibits a profound empathy for animals. During a university-sponsored volunteer program at a local animal shelter, I observed Aleksandre interacting with distressed animals with a level of care and compassion that was truly inspiring. He has a unique ability to calm and reassure animals, reducing their stress and anxiety. This empathy not only benefits the animals but also fosters trust and cooperation among the shelter staff and volunteers.
Aleksandre is also highly self-aware and continuously strives for self-improvement. While he excels in many areas, he has identified his public speaking skills as an area for growth. To address this, he has actively sought opportunities to improve by participating in the university’s debate club and attending public speaking workshops. His proactive approach to personal development underscores his commitment to becoming a well-rounded professional in the veterinary field.
In conclusion, Aleksandre possesses the academic excellence, empathy, and dedication necessary for success in veterinary school. I am confident that he will excel in your program and make significant contributions to the field of veterinary medicine.
Sincerely,
Julia McFee, PhD
Example 2: Veterinarian Recommending Volunteer
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Victoria Cook for admission to your veterinary school. I have had the pleasure of supervising Victoria for the past six months in the Animal Rescue Outreach volunteer program. Throughout this time, she has shown exceptional dedication and a genuine passion for veterinary medicine, making her an excellent candidate for your program.
Victoria’s competence in handling animals is truly remarkable. During one of our busiest seasons, she managed to calm a highly anxious dog that had been brought in after being abandoned. Her calm and reassuring presence not only eased the dog’s stress but also impressed the staff and other volunteers. This incident demonstrated her natural ability to handle animals with care and compassion, a crucial skill for any aspiring veterinarian.
Victoria is also highly attentive and inquisitive. She consistently seeks to understand the underlying causes and treatments of various conditions. For instance, during a medical check-up of an injured cat, Victoria asked insightful questions about the treatment options and prognosis. Her eagerness to learn and her proactive involvement in the care process underscores her commitment to the veterinary profession and her potential as a future veterinarian.
In terms of areas for improvement, Victoria has shown a remarkable ability to recognize and address her weaknesses. Initially, she struggled with organizational skills, but she has made significant strides by adopting effective time management strategies. Her ability to balance her volunteer responsibilities with her academic work is a testament to her dedication and reliability.
In conclusion, Victoria Cook’s passion for veterinary medicine, competence in handling animals, and commitment to continuous improvement make her an ideal candidate for your veterinary school. I am confident that she will excel in your program and contribute significantly to the field of veterinary medicine.
Sincerely,
Dr. Eric Pollocks
Example 3: Veterinarian Recommending Vet Shadower
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Nick Goodman for admission to your veterinary school. Over the past year, Nick has shadowed me at the Greenwood Animal Clinic, providing me with numerous opportunities to observe his dedication and potential in the veterinary field. His passion for veterinary medicine and his exceptional interpersonal skills make him an outstanding candidate for your program.
Nick’s leadership abilities are exceptional. During a particularly busy day at the clinic, Nick took the initiative to organize and delegate tasks to ensure that all animals received timely care. His ability to motivate and coordinate the team under pressure demonstrated his strong leadership skills and decisiveness, qualities that are essential for a successful career in veterinary medicine.
Nick also excels in professionalism and reliability. He consistently arrives at the clinic on time and is always prepared for his duties. On one occasion, when the clinic was short-staffed, Nick volunteered to extend his hours and managed multiple responsibilities efficiently. His dependable nature and commitment to his responsibilities have made him an invaluable asset to our team.
Additionally, Nick has shown a keen understanding of the veterinary profession. He has actively participated in discussions about various cases, providing thoughtful insights and asking pertinent questions. For instance, during a complex case involving a dog with a rare condition, Nick’s critical thinking and eagerness to learn were evident as he researched the condition and contributed valuable information to the treatment plan.
In conclusion, Nick Goodman’s leadership abilities, professionalism, and deep understanding of the veterinary profession make him an ideal candidate for your veterinary school. I am confident that he will excel in your program and make significant contributions to the field of veterinary medicine.
Sincerely,
Dr. Christina Velmore
Vet School Letter of Recommendation Sample
Copy the free sample or download a customizable vet school letter of recommendation template below.
___________________ [Recommender’s name]
___________________ [Recommender’s institution]
______________________________________ [Recommender’s address]
___________________ [Recommender’s phone or email]
___________________ [Date]
___________________ [Recipient’s name]
___________________ [Recipient’s institution]
______________________________________ [Recipient’s address]
___________________ [Recipient’s phone or email]
Dear ________________________ [Recipient’s name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend ___________________ [Candidate’s name] for admission to ___________________ [Program applied for] at ___________________ [Institution’s name]. Having had the pleasure of engaging with ___________________ [Candidate’s name] as their ___________________ [Relation to Candidate] for ______ [Time] at ___________________ [Institution’s name], I have been impressed by their remarkable academic abilities and dedication to the field of veterinary medicine. This positions me well to attest to their suitability of this program.
During their tenure, ___________________ [Candidate’s name] has consistently demonstrated ___________________ [Candidate’s attribute/skill]. A notable achievement was their commitment in _____________________________________ [Description of achievement]. As a result, _____________________________________ [Result of achievement].
Moreover, ___________________ [Candidate’s name] has shown remarkable ___________________ [Candidate’s attribute/skill] through their involvement in _______________________________ [Description of achievement]. Because of this, ___________________________ [Result of achievement].
In terms of areas for improvement, ___________________ [Candidate’s name] has shown a remarkable ability to recognize and address weaknesses. Despite initially struggling with _______________________________ [Description of weakness], they have made significant strides by _______________________________ [Action taken]. ___________________ [Candidate’s name]’s ability to resolve challenges underscores their strong commitment to continuous improvement.
To conclude, I am confident in recommending ___________________ [Candidate’s name] for the ___________________ [Program applied for]. I have no doubt that they will continue to excel and go on to become a well-rounded professional in the veterinary field.
I am happy to provide any additional information or discuss ___________________ [Candidate’s name]’s journey further. I can be reached at ___________________ [Recommender’s phone or email].
Sincerely,
___________________ [Recommender’s name]
___________________ [Recommender’s department or title]
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I don’t have connections with a vet?
Seek out opportunities to gain relevant experience. One effective way to do this is by trying to gain shadowing experience with a veterinarian. You can start by reaching out to local clinics, animal shelters, or even your family veterinarian to ask if they would allow you to shadow them. Additionally, participating in animal volunteering opportunities, such as working at animal shelters, rescue organizations, or wildlife rehabilitation centers, can help you build connections and gain valuable experience.
How do I get animal care experience?
There are several ways to acquire this experience:
- Volunteering: Get involved with animal shelters, rescue organizations, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or veterinary clinics. These places often need volunteers to help with animal care tasks.
- Internships: Look for internships at veterinary clinics, zoos, or animal hospitals. These positions can provide hands-on experience under the supervision of professionals.
- Employment: Consider working as a veterinary assistant, kennel worker, or pet sitter. Paid positions in animal care can provide practical experience and enhance your understanding of the field.
- Educational Programs: Enroll in pre-vet programs or courses that offer practical experience with animals. These programs often include lab work, field studies, and other hands-on activities.
