another PS question!!

[scooter02]

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So although the reasons I want to go into medicine have not changed, and the reasons why I think I'm qualified have not changed, I have managed to put a new angle on things based off what I have been doing since my last app for 2004 (MS microbiology). That part was hard enough cause I really, really did like my old PS. Especially the opening sentence/paragraph. And that leads to my specific question... if I have rewritten the rest of the PS, and it really is different, is there any way that it would be OK to use the same (or a very slightly modified) first paragraph as my 2004 PS?

I kind of think no, cause if someone were to compare my old file to my new one and just glance, it might look the same, or like I was too lazy to think of a new example that could make the same point. But then I kind of think it would be OK because even now, when I look back, the experience I am talking about really was kind of a defining moment, and really helps me make my point. Also, the last app was 3 years ago, and I am applying to some schools again and some schools for the first time...

anyways, I'm kind of rambling, but I'd really like to know your opinions... thanks in advance!! In the meantime I am trying to think of a new and exciting 1st paragraph.

 

[S_Talos]

Did the essay get you interviews where you wanted? I'm in the same boat with the PS and I'm not sure what to do yet either. I liked my PS and worked really hard on it, I got an interview at my top choice and also a waitlist so therefore not sure if its good enough or needs an update. I think I'm going to do some major revision but at the same time keep the general ideas there. Since your essay is a defining moment I don't see any problem keeping it, and don't worry about them just glancing at it. Anyone that has a say so will have to read through the whole thing and then they'll see the differences if they're interested in them.

 

[AngryBaby]

So although the reasons I want to go into medicine have not changed, and the reasons why I think I'm qualified have not changed, I have managed to put a new angle on things based off what I have been doing since my last app for 2004 (MS microbiology). That part was hard enough cause I really, really did like my old PS. Especially the opening sentence/paragraph. And that leads to my specific question... if I have rewritten the rest of the PS, and it really is different, is there any way that it would be OK to use the same (or a very slightly modified) first paragraph as my 2004 PS?

Scooter I'm certainly no authority on the issue. But my 2 cents is that you should redo the first paragraph especially if you're reapplying to some of the same schools and were waitlisted on any of them. I agree that they may have a copy of last year's app and skim over it to get an idea of what you were then to compare that with what you are now, see the same thing...and skip the rest.

Now will this happen?? I've got no idea?? Could it happen?? I'd say yes. Don't know how likely it is but I definately think it's possible and that's enough of a reason to me. You could always say the same thing in your paragraph but just reword it if necessary...if the english language was only beautiful and compelling in 1 precise way then we wouldn't have the multitude of poets and orators that we do. Use your imagination and I'm positive you could come up with an equally compelling, but different, paragraph.

 

[breck]

it might look the same, or like I was too lazy to think of a new example that could make the same point.

Yeah,..............maybe. It might also show that you have confidence in yourself and your first personal statement and the important parts of your life that influenced you to go into medicine. As far as I'm concerned you did your part by updating it, presumably with info. about you getting your MS in microbiology. I think leaving the story shows a lot of conviction so I'd leave it. Afterall it is a PERSONAL statement, so leave what is dear to you (sorry about the flowery sound of this statement), make the necessary updates, and get that beast submitted. I know its easier said than done but since you wanted opinions thats mine. It would be another story if you were talking about submitting the same PS, but most of the things in your past can't be undone, so why undue them in the PS if you feel very strong and confident in the way it was written the first time. Don't do yourself a disservice by making something bad just for the sake of making it different. Good Luck with your choice on this and the application process as a whole. (Obvious Disclaimer: I have never served on an adcom. So this is my uninformed opinion.) I'll also go out on a limb here and say this isn't going to be deal breaker in your application. I think you should be more concerned with whether or not you have done everything within reason to improve your application from last time (MCAT scores, clinical experience, early submission of application etc.) Anyone can change a personal statement, the question is did you address the other things that are likely weighted more??