Need encouragement

[MEDUSA23]

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I am in the process of completing the AMCAS application. I applied to medical school (MD only) in 2007; did not receive an acceptance. I was beginning to reapply (2 months after rejections came in) when my father committed suicide. This was the most challenging period of my life, and these emotions are resurfacing due to fears that I will be rejected again and the 2nd anniversary of his death.

I am applying to MD-PhD programs, which seems non-traditional after not being accepted into an MD program. I have a 35O and 3.7 undergrad GPA. I just completed my 1st year of MS in Epidemiology with a 4.0. I have one publication and six years of research experience. I have two leadership positions in student organizations; one organization I co-founded. I've worked with adults and children with disabilities for five years. I currently work at a job where I recruit cancer patients into a research study, which has been meaningful clinical experience. I have a variety of volunteer experiences from environmental conservation work to community-based clinics. I have strong letters of recommendation, etc.

I am trying to apply broadly (probably one of my mistakes originally). I do not want to go through this a third time. I am really worried I won't be accepted anywhere. Should I be worried? Am I letting the previous experience ruin my expectations?

I think I just need a little encouragement from people who know how humbling this experience can be.

 

[FSAP]

I didn't get in last year with similar stats but reapplied and got interviews at 8 of the 10 schools, eventually got accepted to five and going to a school I am extremely happy with. Don't get discouraged by previous experience. This is a new year and you have every reason to be optimistic. You will likely get into your top choice school.

 

[QofQuimica]

Sorry about your dad. 🙁

Based on your stats and research experience, I think you have a very good chance of getting in this time. But don't beat yourself up over having to reapply, MED. The important thing is that you've learned from what went wrong before, and you're not going to make that mistake (applying to too few programs) again. When you do get in, it will be that much sweeter.

Best of luck. 🙂

 

[Build]

Your application sounds pretty solid! Apply broadly and get your apps submitted as soon as you can have them thoroughly completed and you should be sitting pretty. It speaks a lot to your passion for research and becoming a doctor being in your current position and ready to apply. Whatever personal strengths have gotten you this far in life will certainly help you achieve your career goals. If you ever have questions or need advice on this application process, post away!

Good Luck!

 

[sanktank7]

I cant imagine having that sort of life experience associated with med school applications. Although my circumstances were much different, I can tell you that I had to reapply and I had almost identical stats as you. I ended up getting into a few first tier MD/PhD programs and Im attending one of my top choices. I wouldn't worry much at all about getting into an MD/PhD given all of the experience youv'e got with research. Just apply early as possible (get that primary out if you havent already) and make sure you look as good on paper as you are in person. Good luck!

 

[echod]

I'm sorry to read what has happened to your dad. I think you have very solid credentials that will most likely result in an acceptance. Take care and good luck!