Episode 76: Preparing for the Application Process

Are you planning to apply to medical school in the next cycle? This episode is packed with practical advice to help you get ahead in the application process. From studying for the MCAT to drafting a compelling personal statement and identifying strong letter of recommendation writers, we cover the essential steps to set yourself up for success.

My guest today is Dr. Kathy Lee, a northeast Ohio native with an impressive background in science, education, and student mentorship. Dr. Lee earned her PhD in Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, with post-doctoral fellowships at Cornell and Case Western Reserve University. After nearly two decades at John Carroll University, where she served as Director of Pre-Health Professions, Dr. Lee brought her expertise to our admissions Dream Team this past June.

Join us as we discuss actionable strategies and insights to help you navigate this exciting journey toward a career in medicine.

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This podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by: Christian Essman

RESOURCES: 

• Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists
• University of Utah Health - The Scope - The Scope - AAMC
• AMCAS Workbook

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Preparing for med school application essentials.

10:57 Record experience details accurately for AMCAS application.

16:59 Examples show personal growth through public speaking.

19:42 Plan MCAT prep with practice tests, schedule meticulously.

27:18 Carefully research and choose target medical schools.

33:06 Start early for recommendation letters, avoid rush.

37:36 Start drafting a thoughtful personal statement now.

41:03 Generative AI in admissions: Fair but personal.

47:18 Identify application gaps; plan realistically.

53:34 Acknowledging mistakes and growth shows determination.

KEY TOPICS

Application Preparation Overview

• MCAT preparation

• Personal statements

• Recommendation letters

Recording Experiences and Achievements

• Importance of a Living Document

  • Value for medical school applications

• Comprehensive Record-Keeping

  • Recording all types of experiences

• AMCAS Application Requirements

  • Detailed information and limits on entries

• Reflection and Stress Reduction

  • Value of reflective writing

  • Reduced stress with thorough records

Writing Essays

• Challenge and need for consistency across schools

• Reading materials and time commitment

• Holistic review process

Use of Generative AI in Applications

• Appropriate use and authenticity in personal submissions

• Attestation of originality

• Personal statement drafting tips

Recommendation Letters

• Early planning and discussions

• Communication and follow-up with recommenders

• Providing relevant materials like resumes and personal statements

MCAT Preparation

• Planning schedules and commitments

• Study time investment and practice tests

• Discipline and commitment required

Selecting Medical Schools

• Strategic selection beyond local options

• Use of resources like MSAR

• Evaluating schools on various factors

• Creating a spreadsheet for comparisons

Timing and Gap Year Considerations

• Preparedness for application timing

• Importance of reflecting engagement and passion

• Ownership of past mistakes and personal growth