GPA: 3.35
MCAT: 30Q last year, 30R this year
Interviewed last year but waitlisted. Michigan resident went to UMich for undergrad.
Where did I go wrong??
You did NOT go wrong. Period.
Even as an older student I too get caught up in the introspective and obsessive doubt about my application. Can anyone truly blame any of us for second-guessing every step of the process? We have spent much of this winter and spring studying for a single exam, asking people we respect and admire to critically write about our character, and then spent the whole summer writing essays dominated with the words 'ME' and 'I'. Is it any wonder when we have setbacks we reflexively think it is our 'fault'?
Remember: It is a human and imperfect process.
Chin up. Move on. However, if you can't yet move on...
I believe they offered you an opportunity in your rejection letter to talk to the dean about your application?
...I had my meeting a couple of weeks ago...
My advice: See if you can do it over the phone. They are not going to change their minds when you meet. Also, note that the assistant dean admitted he did not review my personal statement and I suppose based on his concerns with my primary that he didn't review my letters of recommendation either. I would be surprised if your appointment would be any different.
It hurt, mind you. No way around it. Not fun to hear that I am not competitive this application cycle from a medical school dean.
The unexpected up-side of my meeting was that it was final. I confirmed that he was not going to change his mind. It was closure for me. No sense in annoying or arguing with him, now is there? He encouraged me to continue with my post-bacc coursework and apply again next cycle. He had all the power, so I politely thanked him for his time, shook his hand, and left. I had done everything reasonably within my power. End of story.
I am not getting any younger. My goal was to get into WSU this time last year. I didn't dare dream of anything more than that. I still dream of going to medical school. Just not at WSU. Best laid plans of mice and men...
I said up-side because I am now 100% in the mindset of moving out-of-state and re-inventing my family's life and future. It is scary and exciting all at once! When I went to my second of six interviews (thus far) the week after my meeting with WSU, I came off genuinely sincere about attending their school. That much I got out of my meeting.
Onward, my dear friend. Onward, and upward.
Best of luck to all the WSU applicants on this thread.
Best of luck to you in particular, ltw902.
Your fellow Wolverine,
vc7777