Medical School Understanding the Question
Ever wonder why the application asks the questions it does? Need to know what the Admissions officers really want to know? Take a look at the questions below as we attempt to de-mystify the application essay.
Questions
What they mean
- This is your opportunity to provide personal information that is otherwise not included on the application. Consider and construct your comments carefully; many admissions committees place significant weight on this section.
- Intent
This question asks for a unique statement that will give the admissions committee a better sense of who you are, why you are interested in medicine, and what qualities you have that would make you a good physician. The question is not meant to prompt reiterations of information from other parts of your application or a discussion about your intellectual abilities. Medical school admissions committees would like to know what has inspired and motivated you to want to become a doctor. - Suggestions
Do not offer a generic or grandiose philosophical reason for your desire to become a doctor. Choose a specific personal experience such as working in a clinic or a research lab, or witnessing a close relative undergo long-term hospital care. Admissions committees also like to see some evidence of community service participation, as they would like to determine your true commitment to helping others. Always explain how the experience, event, or activity has fed your motivation to become a doctor and how it has primed you for the medical field. It is important that you not only tell admissions committees why you want to be a doctor, but that you show them how you have tested your decision and demonstrated your commitment through real-life personal experiences. You may also use your personal statement to explain academic deficiencies, but do not waste your entire essay making excuses. Make sure to explain well why you want to become a doctor, and how your experiences differentiate you from other applicants.