Some applicants begin to relax after finishing their personal statement, but now isn't the time to slack off. The Work and Activities section is also an important contributor to first impressions, and gives admissions committees an idea of who you are beyond the statistics. You can include up to 15 extracurricular entries with a 700 … Continue reading How To: AMCAS Work and Activities
Clean Hands, Clear Minds
Let's discuss everyone's favorite microbe: the coronavirus, more affectionately known as COVID-19. While it's necessary to be cautious and practice good hygiene, the mass hysteria fueled by the media does more harm than good. Widespread fear and suspicion have replaced common sense and compassion when we need it most, and it sends the wrong message … Continue reading Clean Hands, Clear Minds
New Decade, New Intentions
Every year, I like to reflect on the old and plan for the new. This year is a tad different because it's the beginning of a new decade, and the endless possibilities seem even more infinite. Being swept up in the global swell of enthusiasm for change is euphoric, and I feel so powerful knowing … Continue reading New Decade, New Intentions
Medical School Application Timeline
Before reading this, remember that everyone's journey to medical school is different. Don't feel pressured to apply because everyone else is doing it or because it's when you're "supposed to". Apply when you feel ready. However, once you decide to start the application cycle for that year, it's a commitment. Crafting the perfect personal statement, … Continue reading Medical School Application Timeline
A Med Student’s Wishlist
Starbucks/ Bubble tea Giftcards: A gift your student will appreciate whether it's for the 8th straight hour of studying or a little pick-me-up. Low Maintenance Plants: Houseplants help remove indoor pollutants while uplifting one's mood and boosting productivity. Air plants, succulents, devil's ivy, and snake plants are almost indestructible and provide many benefits. They're a … Continue reading A Med Student’s Wishlist
“How’s Med School?”
Feel free to scroll to the bottom for the short answer. Long answer to how medical school has been:Since school started, I’ve been asked numerous times by numerous people how things have been going. I was overcome by a wave of calmness in the days leading up to school and told myself that no matter … Continue reading “How’s Med School?”
Don’t Stop Me Now
Medical school can be overwhelmingly difficult when readjusting to a routine and relearning how to study and manage your time. I still haven't quite found a solid study method or schedule after a month, and it seems as though everyone else has got things figured out. I've had some difficulty snapping out of the negativity … Continue reading Don’t Stop Me Now
Gap Year Reflections
If you don't want to hear my life story, scroll to the bottom for more general gap year thoughts! With my gap year and last true summer of freedom coming to a close, I've been increasingly doubtful as to whether I've made the most of my time. Have I made enough meaningful memories and done … Continue reading Gap Year Reflections
Obtaining Research and Clinical Experience
Research Experience: To find a research position, browse through departments of interest or faculty pages and read previously published papers and current projects. If you find something that catches your eye, send a short but professional email stating your major, how you'd like to get research experience, why their research interests you, and suggest meeting … Continue reading Obtaining Research and Clinical Experience
Undergraduate Extracurriculars
You go to college to get more knowledge, but it's the involvement in other things that make these years memorable and worthwhile. What are extracurriculars needed for medical school? Though it's recommended to have at least one medically related extracurricular experience, join whichever organizations interest you. Remember quality over quantity. Pick some that resonate with … Continue reading Undergraduate Extracurriculars
