Hello all,
I have 3-4 friends that are physicians. Is it appropriate to shadow any of them? Is it a conflict of interest to ask for a letter of recommendation?
I am perfectly okay with finding my own way without them, but since I have the connections, should I use them?
Thanks for any input you guys can give.
Rob
USE them. Some of my best experiences have been with my friends–and they are perfect candidates for LORs, because they have an inside knowledge of your personality that others will not.
The other great part about friends who are physicians? They have other friends who are physicians. =) My oncologist friend set me up with a surgeon he works with frequently, and now I get to shadow her once a week… he wouldn’t have done that for most people, and she wouldn’t have accepted. But because of the connection, I now have a new strong, positive relationship with a surgeon. AWESOME!
Connections and networking are crucial, in my experience. Use every single relationship you have. I’ve found that they are very excited and invested in my journey, and they are far more motivated to help me learn. They want to help. Let them!!! 
(And remember it when YOU are the physician and someone wants to shadow you…)
Carrieliz,
Thanks for the input! I will follow your advice. I have never been shy of using connections, but in this case I’m a little skittish. I have risked a lot to pursue a career in medicine and as I’m sure you know, it has been an uphill battle. This has resulted in a fair amount of paranoia about shooting myself in the foot.
Thanks again,
Rob
I would definitely shadow friends! I’m actually trying to shadow the surgeon that repaired my jaw three years ago simply because I know him now.
In my opinion you should shadow your friend as he is way ahead on the path that you want to go on.