Who Should Write My CASAA Letters of Recommendation for CAA School?

The process of choosing the right individuals to write your letters of recommendation for CAA school is a crucial aspect of your application. Here are three tips to guide you through this process.

1. Select Someone Who Knows You Well

Opt for individuals who have a personal and in-depth understanding of your character, abilities, and achievements. The more intimate their knowledge, the more impactful and convincing the letter will be.


Let's contrast two examples: one from a professor with minimal personal interaction and another from someone with a deeper connection, showcasing not just academic aptitude but also personal qualities.

Generic Example:

Personalized Example:

This second example of a personalized letter rather than a generic one certainly builds a stronger application.

2. Diversify Your Choices

CASAA requires three evaluations. Aim for a diverse set of recommenders to present various facets of your personality and capabilities. Avoid getting all your letters from one category (e.g., professors) to provide a well-rounded view of your strengths. Seek recommendations from different areas. Here are a few categories to begin your brainstorming.

Consider asking someone who can speak to your...

  • academic ability, such as a professor, research advisor or PI, or academic advisor.
  • character, such as a coach, volunteer coordinator, mission trip supervisor, or mentor.
  • professionalism, such as an employer, colleague, clinical supervisor, healthcare professional, or military officer.
  • anesthesia suitability, such as a CAA, anesthesiologist or CRNA.

Getting three letter that each address all four of these categories is a tall order. Realistically, each letter might cover 1-2 of these, and that is okay!

3. Highlight Something You're Proud Of

Finally, pick someone who can specifically speak to a personal characteristic or accomplishment that you're proud to show to the admission committee. For example, if you've worked as an anesthesia tech or emergency room scribe, you could ask your supervisor to write a letter highlighting your ability to work well with others even in stressful situations. This not only adds depth to your application but also allows the admissions committee to see your unique strengths and contributions.

You'll also want to ensure that your recommender understands your professional aspirations of becoming a certified anesthesiologist assistant. Realistically speaking, you will likely have to explain what an anesthesiologist assistant is and does! You could even send them a link to this article if you're wanting to share about the CAA profession with them.

It's helpful for them to understand the characteristics that make a strong anesthesia team member so they can emphasize relevant strengths within your application.

Take Aways

Choosing the right individuals for your letters of recommendation is an essential step in creating a strong and compelling CAA school application. Personalization, diversity, and pride in your achievements will contribute to a well-rounded and convincing set of recommendation letters.

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Sarah is the founder of Aspiring CAA, a practicing certified anesthesiologist assistant, clinical preceptor, and assistant professor at a master of medical science program. With admission committee experience and an intricate knowledge of the admissions process, she helps guide prospective CAA students on their career journey.

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About this blog

Aspiring CAA is the go-to blog for expert advice on how to become a CAA. Founded by a practicing certified anesthesiologist assistant, clinical preceptor, and assistant professor at a master of medical science program in anesthesiology, Aspiring CAA makes admissions guidance readily available to all aspiring anesthesiologist assistants. With admission committee experience and an intricate knowledge of the admissions process, Aspiring CAA takes the guess work out of applying to CAA school.

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