Concerns about identifying as non-binary in application

[Usefulminced]

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Throwaway account for anonymity, but entirely serious post. I am aware this application process has a history of ORM vs URM, which is why I want to make this post and hear other people's opinions.

I am applying this cycle and have recently been questioning my assigned gender and have been preferring to be referred to as they/them. However, I am concerned this would look poorly on my application because it might look like I am trying to game the system by trying to look URM since I have been assigned white male at birth. Additionally, I have told pretty much no-one, besides my parents, and I have two big concerns:

First, I am confident that all of my letter writers, all of whom actually know me well, besides me questioning my gender, have written he/him pronouns in their letters. I want to know if it would look bad on my application if I switch, since none of my letters of rec will have reflected my change in pronouns.

Second, I am concerned that, if considered genuine, some ADCOMS, especially in certain states, will look down on me identifying as non-binary, and besides being options on the application, I don't know how well this kind of thing is accepted in medicine.

Any input, thoughts, or experiences is greatly appreciated.

 

[wysdoc]

Since your switch to the use of different pronouns is quite recent, and you say you have told only your parents about this, the use of he/him in the letters by your recommenders is consistent with their knowledge of you at the time.

I don't think you need to worry in the least about someone comparing the words used by your recommenders in their letters to the pronouns you select on your application form.

 

[KnightDoc]

I think your concern about being accused of gaming is unfounded. If anything, as you recognize, you might find yourself discriminated against by less enlightened people on some adcoms, so that might be a reason to avoid the issue.

It should make no difference at all, but, at the end of the day, it is impossible to get inside someone's head (like it's impossible to get inside yours!) and know why they are rendering an unfavorable decision on an application if they do not commit their honest reasons to writing.

No one is going to think you are gaming anything, because non-binary is not a status recognized as URM that is going to result in any kind of admissions preference. If you have told no one besides your parents, just who is abiding by your wishes, aside from them?

JMHO, but I don't think you have anything to gain by going here, unless and until you are comfortable coming out to the world, at which point it is what it is. But, it just might cost you at some schools with some people, so why risk it? Good luck.

 

[Goro]

Just don't apply to Loma Linda or LUCOM.

Otherwise, this is a nothingburger

 

[Mr.Smile12]

I am sure AMCAS/some schools have begun to ask for preferred pronouns and gender identities. I'm not sure how this changes things except you should decide for consistency.