Is it common for an interviewer to ask about these things?

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appleaday1

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So I had a very hard time my freshman year (as many have). I went to school far from home, but flew back often to be with my family because of an illness in the household, and got a 3.0 my first semester because I couldn't focus, felt extremely depressed and overwhelmed, etc. etc.

I transferred my 2nd semester to be slightly closer to home, but also to kind of take a deep breath and figure out what I wanted to do away from a place I associated with being overwhelmed. Things came very much into perspective for me, I was able to focus on my studies (3.8 that semester), and figure out my goals. This is when I realized I actually did want to be a doctor, as I had lost confidence for it after my first semester.

I transferred my sophomore year (yes, 3rd school in 3 semesters) because I wanted to start completely fresh, be more independent as I was further from home, and work towards my goal with a clean slate (though it all follows you, anyway). This was also my dream school that I didn't get into the first time around. It was the best decision of my life- this year has been the happiest I've ever been- I've made amazing friends, found a sense of self and confidence, worked extremely hard, etc.

So long story short, I did transfer twice in one year. This of course stands out, and I know it might reflect weakness and uncertainty in an applicant. I was wondering how often questions about transferring come up in an interview? I know that ultimately my struggles and failures led to my growth which is a very positive thing in my eyes, but I find it hard to talk about the "why's", as they are because of my weaknesses at the time. I also don't want to get into personal reasons with my family because I don't want to come off as though I'm seeking pity, though it does tie into a low 1st semester GPA. I'm nervous about not being able to come off as a strong person because of my unstable freshman year.

Sorry if this seems like a stupid question, I guess I just feel as though this is an unusual situation and I'm not sure how it's looked at by schools (looked down upon maybe?), and I'm just a bit of a nervous Nancy to the idea of having to explain it eloquently.

Thanks everyone!
 
Dear OP,

You are definitely not alone in this situation, so there is no need to worry about coming across as weak or flawed. Everyone has rough patches, and it all depends on how you look at them and what you've learned from them. Admissions will definitely be curious about your first year, but they will also understand that individual circumstances happen. When it comes time for essays, applications, and interviews, explain exactly what happened. As you said, don't focus on gaining pity or making an excuse for the grades you came away with. Focus instead on explaining the facts, including how you've improved academically since then. If you're qualified and ready to enter medical school, your stats and words will speak for themselves.
 
even if you are asked just give more or less the same explanation and you should be fine as long as you keep performing well in school
 
If you explain properly, it won't hold you back, if that's what you're asking.
 
i had a bad day once in 4th grade when i failed a test .... never recovered
 
say what you just posted.
 
I agree, say what you wrote. I knew a guy who chose a school based on athletics but didn't find the place to be a good fit in any other way and left by Christmas. He took some classes the following term at another school near home then transferred to a new school as a sophomore. It happens.

You don't even have to go into the "someone sick at home" thing, just say it wasn't a good fit, you moved closer to home to regroup, and then found your niche.
 
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