There are far too many “cookie cutter” applicants who all look the same on paper and in black interview suits. You need to set yourself apart from all the other applicants.
Figure out what is special about you and what you have to offer the field of medicine that sets you apart from all the other applicants. Get involved in a variety of quality activities and when you find something that you love, stick with it. Participate in activities because you really want to and because you enjoy them, not because they will look good on your resume. You will easily be able to convey your enthusiasm for activities and experiences about which you are passionate, but not for activities that you took part in because you thought you had to do them in order to get into medical school.
This is excerpted from 101 Tips on Getting Into Medical School by Jennifer C. Welch, who has served as the Director of Admissions at SUNY Upstate Medical School since 2001.
Additional Resources:
- Ten Do’s and Don’ts for Your Medical School Personal Statement
- The Traveler, a sample essay
- Med School Admissions Chat Transcripts
Read the full article: Dare to be Different. Stand Out in the Application Process!