I am applying to 10 Biology PhD programs and am using a doctor that I shadowed as one of my letters of recommendation. I am extremely nervous now, as it seems like an academic reference would’ve been a better choice. I have professors that would love to write me a LOR, but throughout this process, I thought that a personal reference (doctor I shadowed) would speak to my overall character (hoping admissions counselors would see it as “this person is easy to work with”).
However, with three days left to submit these applications, I must stick with that decision.
I am wondering what peoples thoughts are on this matter? Should I include a brief paragraph with my application including this information? Should I withdraw my application completely?
Any information would be incredibly helpful, as I am freaking out about this.
My other two LORs are a CEO from a biotech i interned for, and my PI.