Nontraditional MD Applicant - Almost Done

[spaceracer]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Good Morning Crew,

I had to take a detour from my original application timeframe due to having a child. I was already a nontraditional student nearly 7 years ago....now that I'm 37, I have an undergraduate GPA of 3.8 (science 3.9), graduate of 3.9, and postbach in biomedical sciences of 4.0. My 2025 MCAT score was a 513, which should clear most Texas MD schools. I have military service and combat life saving skills instructional experience, but they were more than 17 years ago. I have volunteered with hospice care, both cancer and end of life. I've been working in Data Science/Data Engineering for like 7 years, which isn't at all related to the medical field. I'm concerned that I won't be able to get a letter from a physician; I'm also concerned that my application might get pushed aside due to my age and lack of clinical experience. If I got an EMT-B license and worked a few shifts a month, would this ensure I have a better chance at getting Texas Public MD School offers (I have like 50% of my Hazlewood Act left)? What are your suggestions to eliminate any weaknesses in my application? What can I do to improve to ensure acceptance for application cycle 2026?

 

[wysdoc]

You sound really well prepared and my biggest tips are:
1. Get your TMDSAS application ready to submit early, like in May or June. The sooner it is in the hands of the readers, the more months of interview chances are open to you. A revamping of your TMDSAS essays since your prior cycle is wise and you will have more items to add to your activities/experiences.
2. You don't need an MD letter, but letters from your postbac professors attesting to your ability to handle the coursework and your personal traits & work ethic would be great.
3. Texas MD schools will look for some medical contact, it can be a job, shadowing, or volunteering.
4. Your hospice volunteering should cover the community service aspect they look for.

 

[spaceracer]

An admissions advisor at UT Tyler told me not to apply this year because I didn't have a letter from a doctor.