does your ps have to include major activties/accomplishments

[snowys435]

---

Members do not see this ad.

So basically I was ready to submit my app and I had showed my ps to several ppl and overall it was good. however, one of my friends brought up to me that I didn't bring my major stuff that i have done in college. my statement is very personal and talks about one shadowing/on volunteering, and one tutoring expereince. I also bring in a personal story of why i got into medicine.


my friend suggested that I have done a lot of other major stuff in college like reserach/ being president of a religious organization and doing a lot with that. anyone can volunteer/shadow and it isnt very impressive. should i redo my personal statement?

 

[Meredith92]

Definitely not. You're not writing a cover letter you're writing med school personal statement. If you wanna be sure of this buy a few books that have example essays to get a sense for what they want. And although you're friend is very nice to read it over and give you his opinion, he probably has no clue what the admissions committee is looking for.
I think your original essay sounds right on.

 

[StephanieZ]

You've already outlined all of your major accomplishments and activities in your AMCAS, so you don't need to do it again. Focus on what's most meaningful to you.

 

[snowys435]

that's what i thought but the sample essays my dean has shown us are very "this is how my accomplishments fit into medicine." i def. did not do that.

 

[snowys435]

i tried to see if some people from the official ps reading thread would take a look but unfortunately no one is available on such short notice. would you guys mind taking a skim?

 

[Toss]

Other sample personal statements you can look at.

It goes without saying that you probably shouldn't copy any portion of their essays.

NickNaylor's: http://www.mdapplicants.com/profile.php?id=19291
paul411's: http://www.mdapplicants.com/profile.php?id=20784

 

[snowys435]

I don't think either of those really cover any major activities or anything....they're more of a personal story like mine.

 

[snowys435]

if someone who has read personal statements would be willing to take a look it would be super helpful. I just havent been able to get someone on the official reader thread to read it.

 

[Lucky Louie]

if someone who has read personal statements would be willing to take a look it would be super helpful. I just havent been able to get someone on the official reader thread to read it.

snowy, I'll take a look. I'm not on the "official reader" list, but I have helped many applicants with their essay. Keep in mind that the application already lists your activities and accomplishments. The essay is their chance to get to know you a little better. There is no-and-fast rule that indicates that you have reiterate your activities. Adcoms can also figure out how your activities relate to medicine, one way or another. Often a story is harder to work into the personal statement than a timeline or a summary of your activities, but I hear it's often preferred.

 

[snowys435]

already submitted but thanks!!!! I stuck with my story one. so great to have this off my chest. its like being done mcat all over again