How to send update and not annoy

[Beast11]

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Greetings All:

I would like to send an "update/" letter which may have a "premature intent" flavor. There will be a significant update (good publication) BUT I do have ulterior motives-mainly to explain some of my UG grade trends.

Is there a way I can send an update and possibly insinuate myself with ADCOMS without being annoying? Should I send an update letter (if at all) and if I do so-should it be very neutral?

Thanks!

 

[Purtyangel22]

I dont have experience doing this for med school, but I do for jobs. First I would stress your continued intrest in the school. Then I would update them on what new information you have since your application. You could then go into why your undergrad grades were low, but I would not dwell on it. Make sure you put it in a positive light, like I had family problems but I am confident in my ability, blah blah blah. Then maybe close with why you would be a great addition to the class of 20xx. Now, I have not had to do this personally, but I have heard of some people who do write letters just explaining their grades, especially if it was something out of their control. Hopefully someone else will put some input up to, but I think that the above approach has worked for jobs, so it would probably work for med school. You could also call the admissions office and see what past med students have done, you dont have to give your name. I would definitely send something though, and I dont think that they would be annoyed, as long as you dont send one every other day. Hope this helps!

 

[budhak0n]

Always seek to minimize your low points while always admitting to them.

It's the same in any "argument" or legal writing. But everybody's style is different... If you know there will be a glaring question or weakness in your "argument" or application , it's often better to address it head on.. and more importantly by writing the letter...

You begin to develop a rapport with the people who may decide your application. Then regardless of what the subject matter is brought up in this go around when you address future issues... Mr or Mrs Ad Comm A or B will know who John Smith is.. and not simply see you as a Manila file folder.

There's absolutely nothing wrong with communication. But usually your best bet is to go after what will be their first objection .. acknowledge it and then move on while not excusing it, but moving on to the issue at hand which is why you belong.

Just my two cents.. Haven't even done it for myself yet so I'm no expert but I've done it for jobs of course.

 

[gman33]

I wouldn't go too far in trying to explain poor grades. If something major happened, like you were seriously ill, this might account for 1 semester. More than that, you are just making excuses. Your grades and your trends tend to speak for themselves.

It is good to send updates if you have new, positive information to convey.