Some Things that are not as Obvious Communications skills. The importance of good written and oral communication skills cannot be over emphasized. In the short term you must write a convincing personal essay as part of your application, and you must present yourself in a convincing fashion in an interview with selection committees. As a health care professional you must communicate effectively with clients, colleagues and the public. Letters of recommendation.
Applications typically require three or four letters of recommendation.
Letters from friends of the family, ministers or high school teachers are normally not appropriate. The important thing is that those writing letters on your behalf are people who know you and your academic capabilities and personal qualities. The fact that you make a good grade in a class does not give the faculty member the basis for writing a meaningful letter of recommendation. Stay after class and ask thoughtful questions about the course material, visit your professors during their office hours, or even make appointments where appropriate to meet with them at other times, take leadership roles in group projects, etc. Participation in research projects is an excellent way to not only get to know faculty, but also to enhance your education.