How to Maintain Perspective and Sanity Throughout the Long Race to Medical School. (Part 1)

The medical application process is probably one of the most stressful times for any young adult. It doesn’t just last a few months but rather 6 to 9 months. Throughout the year there are several different phases you will enter each with its own kind of stress.

Now, late summer most applicants have submitted their primary AMCAS application. You are likely waiting for it to be verified, have either taken the MCATs or will be shortly, and are working night and day to complete secondaries. This is what you should be doing. Applying to medical school is a full time job and trying to work a job, volunteer or do research is just too distracting from the tasks at hand. The key to success: stay on top of all aspects of your application – doing so will help you maintain control. Giving yourself the time needed to submit your secondaries will prevent the panic that many students feel in September and October when their fellow applicants are invited to interviews.

 Try not to compare yourself with your fellow applicants – such comparisons will just increase your anxiety. If you need support reach out but remember to reach out to someone in your corner – a professor, an, advisor, or a mentor – not another crazed applicant. Procrastination breeds anxiety so stay on top of things, be proactive, and soon your applications will be complete and you can breathe easy.

In the months of September through December, you should try to step back a little from the application craze at least mentally, and enjoy whatever you are spending the year doing. Once your applications are complete, it really is a waiting game until you receive that first invitation. Try to be positive. Participate in activities you are passionate about and that you are excited to share on interviews. Don’t do things only for your application, but rather do what you want, something that will inspire you. Enjoy this time as it may be the last time you will be this carefree for years to come.

By guest blogger Theresa Davies-Heerema, Ph.D., who has advised many medical and dental school applicants during her career in post-graduate education.

Read the full article: How to Maintain Perspective and Sanity Throughout the Long Race to Medical School. (Part 1)

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