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.
Later in the application cycle during the late fall into early winter after completing all the secondaries, you move into the interview stage, an extremely stressful and anxiety-provoking period. Some students are very comfortable in an interview setting while others are not – either way the best way to reduce stress is to go into each interview well prepared. Spend time reviewing the medical school’s mission, curriculum and focus – think about how you are a good match for the school and psyche yourself up for sharing this with your interviewer. If at all possible have a mock interview with a mentor or your advisor. Think about the hard questions you might be asked in advance and know what you want to share. Don’t talk too much to other applicants on interview day, but rather talk to the current medical students so you really get a feel for the program and its appropriateness for you. Be honest and share your concerns and questions with your student tour guides and in exchange they will respond similarly.
Lastly, during the late winter into spring, you are stuck in what seems like an interminable waiting game. This is when you need to have faith and try to be patient. It never hurts to send an update letter informing schools of something “new,” but really you need to just be patient. Continue to use this time for personal growth expanding your view of medicine and the world and assessing how you will fit in as a future physician.
Don’t let the pressure and competitiveness take over. Stay grounded and remember each one of you is an original – you never know what part of your application will catch an admission committee member’s eye. It is OK to be different and stand out. Believe in yourself. All applicants have strong academic credentials, but try to keep things in perspective. The race is not just about the numbers – it is also about who you are inside and what you will bring to the medical field – qualities such as passion, sincerity and integrity.
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 2)
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