Long term Career goals?

[Futuredoc1364]

Some secondaries like Maryland ask what our long-term career goals are. So are they trying to figure out if we know what kinds of residencies we like or what we are inclined to get into?

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[gmsquid]

I'm not sure about this...considering my most important shadowing experience defined my long term career goals. I really hate the professions essay. What is that about!?

 

[Futuredoc1364]

I'm not sure about this...considering my most important shadowing experience defined my long term career goals. I really hate the professions essay. What is that about!?

I am not too sure... So you are saying that we should basically say what residencies we like to do? See, I dont know how I can elaborate on that using 300 words. I mean there is not that much to talk about. 😕

 

[gmsquid]

I think more along the lines what do we want from a career in medicine. Its more than just the money.

 

[IHaveLab]

I think one major point of these 'where do you see yourself in the future' essays is get a sense of your personality--don't write strictly about career/job stuff. Throw in a sentence or two about a hobby you plan to pursue (I remember writing that I hope to someday grow a garden). If you think you'll have kids in 10 years, I don't think it's unreasonable to mention that too...just be strategic with what you say and come try to sound like the multi-faceted human being you are, not a medical robot.

 

[notdeadyet]

So are they trying to figure out if we know what kinds of residencies we like or what we are inclined to get into?

If you are uncertain about what field you want to go in to in medicine, you are far from alone. Of those that sound hell bent on a particular specialty, a good few will change their minds in medical school.

Just talk about what kind of doctor you'd like to be. Do you want to help people clinically, or do research? Young or older patients? Work with technology or with your hands?

I think that what they are looking for is evidence that you've thought about medicine as the end game, not just medical school. I don't think they'll be off put by your inability to say "pediatric nephrology" at this early stage.