Ok, so I am going to toss this out there, what is the opinion of getting a LOR from a spouse? I am torn and can’t seem to find many opinions on it. On one hand, it seems a bit empty as I can’t imagine that it would hold much weight. On the other hand, as a OPMer I feel that it is a unique prospective that can add to the package. It can show support and maybe a bit about character.
In my case, I was hoping to communicate that my wife and I started a business. If I collaborated on such an endeavor with someone other than my spouse, I wouldn’t think twice about asking them for a letter.
I think it would depend on the school. I’ve seen some that suggest getting a letter from friend/spouse because they really know who you are. I’ve seen others that say they don’t recommend friend/spouse because there’s an obvious bias. I’ve also seen some places that don’t accept a spouse letter.
If you really wanted to send one, I would probably include it in any “additional” letters outside of the minimum required. Just my opinion based on my research during one application cycle. Again, though, check with the schools to which you’re applying.
A LOR from a spouse is not what med schools want since a spouse obviously can’t be objective. Med schools want LORs from individuals who have supervised, taught, and/or mentored the applicant and who can weigh in on academic strengths, capacity for sustained hard work, character traits, professionalism, suitability for the medical profession, etc. Seek out letters from former professors, bosses, physicians (who have supervised your work, whether volunteer or paid) and others who can write about what you would add to a medical school class and the medical profession.
Cheers,
Liza