applying to medical school

The application process to medical school is long, hard, and very expensive. They tell you to treat it like a marathon: don't get too caught up in the early moments and you'll need stamina to survive the long haul. Well having been accepted at this point, I can go back and reflect upon this process:

First time applying: 2006
Times taken the MCAT: 2
MCAT score: (nice try Henry...)
Times taken MCAT Reivew Course: 2 (both on paper)
Schools applied to: too many to count, it's sick (From Boston to Nebraska and everywhere in between)
Secondaries completed: a lot
Interviews: 0
Total approx cost = $2000

Second time applying: 2008
Times taken the MCAT: 3 (the two previous times, then once on the computer)
Transcripts ordered: 2
Schools applied to: 20 (From Maine to Pomona, CA)
Secondaries completed: 18, I think
Interviews: 4, plus turned down 1
Acceptances thus far: 1
Waitlisted: 2
Rejected post-interview: 1 (I think it was mutual??)
Post-secondary rejections: 2
Time spent on SDN: countless...can probably be measured in weeks
Total approx cost = $5000, not including post-bacc program

The most unreasonably expensive cost? Renting a car in Phoenix, AZ for 4 days cost over $300 because I am under the age of 25 and had to pay a fee per day. Bitches.

A snapshot at my most recent application:

- Lots of healthcare experiences, volunteering, leadership roles, research; emphasis in public health, psychology, children
- Any C's? Yes, quite a few but I retook many classes in the post-bacc program
- Fail? Blurg, I did not pass the MCAT class, spring semester of 2008, due to their attendance policy. It's a glaring U on my transcript that turns into a "Non Pass"/"Fail" on the AACOMAS application. Urgh. But it didn't ruin me!!

Things I've learned:
- Apply early, as soon AMCAS/AACOMAS accepts applications is when you should turn it in
- Research schools and apply broadly: if you do not apply to a school, you will not get in
- Resources: Keep in touch with professors, advisors, mentors, supervisors, friends/family in med schools - you never know when you might need a LOR, support/guidance, or a place to sleep while visiting schools
- Know yourself and your application: especially your reasons for applying to medical school. It's easier said than done, the personal statement can take up to 3 months to write, edit, and perfect.
- Contact with the schools or any admissions people there: always treat them with respect because everyone there can judge you and make a statment about your application. Visiting schools, attending an open house, having an email conversation about your application are great ways to stay visible in the eyes of the admissions committee.
- When I wasn't successful the first time, I asked how to make my application stronger and worked hard to become a better applicant. Keep the faith!

Thanksgiving

On a day like today, where people trample on others to save $25 on electronics on Black Friday and Mumbai is besieged by terrorists, I have much to be thankful for:

For my family and friends, for their continued love, support, and advice
For an acceptance to a medical school and being given the opportunity to pursue my dreams
For the opportunities that my parents gave me, and the sacrifices they made to provide them

...For all that I have, all that I can give, and all that I am about to receive.