obstacles? emotional distress?

[jumpingbean]

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I did my undergrad schooling at a "second tier" school, and am a pretty average applicant (28 MCAT, 3.65 GPA). I did have some signficant emotional obstacles to overcome (a couple of my friends passed away, family crisis), but I don't want to come off as unstable because of this. Should I or should I not mention it? Any advice? Thanks!

 

[the other Dr.]

I did my undergrad schooling at a "second tier" school, and am a pretty average applicant (28 MCAT, 3.65 GPA). I did have some signficant emotional obstacles to overcome (a couple of my friends passed away, family crisis), but I don't want to come off as unstable because of this. Should I or should I not mention it? Any advice? Thanks!

Yes, just be careful how you write it. Look into applying to NYU, it specifically asks about this and it the only secondary essay!

 

[calstudent]

Definitely mention it. But, speak maturely about it, discuss what you have learned, why they have made you a stronger person, and ready to deal with them in the future.
In a sense, you are lucky, and I don't mean this sarcastically.
Medicine is an emotionally trying profession, and having had tough experiences to learn from, you will be BETTER prepared than people like me.
Good luck.