Obtain the records from the student who is requesting the composite letter. It is the student's responsibility to get these materials to you. These materials include a resume, work experience, academic honors, research or independent study and any experience in the health care field.
Meet with the student. Because the composite letter will judge the student's ability to succeed in medical school, a one-on-one interview is essential in making observations that can be put into the letter. Ask the student questions that help you to understand the student's motivation in going to medical school.
Begin writing the letter by addressing it to the admissions committees. Remember that your letter serves as an introduction for the student.
Write about the strengths of the student(s). Use the material that the student provided as support for your beliefs. Continue writing by highlighting what you feel is important in the student's file in characterizing the student and making a judgment about the student's potential for success in the health care field.
Conclude the letter by providing an overall assessment of the student. This can be based in part on your interview with the student. Provide what you feel are the most important elements of the student's application in providing a context for the admission's committee when reviewing the student's application for admission.