by Cheryl Doss

Applying to professional health schools such as medical, dental, and physician assistant schools is probably the most intensive application process there is.  It is not something that can be done quickly or without careful thought.  Developing a plan to submit your application when the application cycle opens will relieve some of the stress.  We recommend our students begin the process approximately six months before the cycle begins.  Below are some tips for a smoother application experience.

 

1. Schedule and prepare for the MCAT or other admissions tests – Research and select a test date that works for your schedule. Allow six to eight months to prepare.  For those taking the MCAT, investing in an MCAT course will help refresh concepts and develop test-taking strategies, but will also offer scheduling and discipline to keep you on task.   Take the test when you are ready, but the sooner, the better.  You will want to know your test score before you hit the submit button on your application.  If your test score is not competitive, you may want to consider delaying your application to the next cycle.

 

2. Strong personal statement – Your academic performance and readiness will speak for itself in your transcripts, test scores and in the recommendation letters. Use the personal statement to address your reasons for pursuing a career as a healthcare practitioner.  Expand beyond the “I want to help people” statement.  Consider including the defining moment when you were called to this career.  Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses; how have you grown and developed in areas that needed improvement, and how can you continue to grow.

 

3. Secure recommendation letters – You will want to select your references carefully. Natural science professors are a must, as well as a practitioner you have spent time with shadowing/observing.  It goes without saying, you should be confident they will provide an honest but positive recommendation.  Give them ample time to prepare and send the letter.  Remember that they are busy professionals and should not be expected to provide a letter on short notice.

 

4. Begin the application – Don’t wait until you have all of your documents ready before beginning the online application. The application is a work in progress, and it is set up to allow you to update with additional information.  You will want your part of the application to be finished when recommendation letters, transcripts, and test scores are uploaded.

 

5. Advocate for yourself – Monitor your application and supporting documents carefully. If there is a delay in the uploading of some documents, it is fine to inquire why and when they may be ready.   Just be sure to be respectful when following up, but remember – you are responsible for your future and assuring everything is in place for review.

 

6. Prepare for the interview – It is imperative to carefully review your application and personal statement before the interview. Schedule a practice interview with Careers Service or a friend.  Get plenty of rest the night before.  Dress professionally and be yourself.  Be prepared to ask questions; you are interviewing the school as much as they are interviewing you.  You’ve come this far, and the interview is to determine if you and the school are a good fit.

 

7. Stay in touch – When you’ve been accepted, share the good news with your professors and others who have supported you during the process. They want to share your excitement and joy.

 

Be intentional in preparing your application to professional health school by scheduling self-imposed due dates for certain tasks as you move through the process.  Having a plan is a great way to combat being overwhelmed and stressed, which allows you to give proper attention to continued academic studies or work.  The professional school application process is a marathon, not a sprint; a stronger beginning will translate into a stronger finish.