Question for the Non-Trads!?

[smileyman22336]

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Hey everybody, good day!

I just am curious about all of you individuals who pursued other professional degrees or higher level degrees before deciding to go the medical route, MD & DO included,

What has your experience been like? Do you think you are at an advantage, or disadvantage, or are not sure?

I'm especially curious about people's experiences applying to medical school, or who are planning on applying who have gone through pharmacy or dental school.

Did the interviewers ask why you decided to make a career change?

For those of you studying for the MCAT, did you find it helpful having the background knowledge you currently contain?

I'm interested because this is the situation I might currently be phased with.

Thank all of you, have a great day.

 

[Law2Doc]

Did the interviewers ask why you decided to make a career change?

I can speak to all of your questions, but can pretty much guaranty you will be asked why you are making the career change in every nontrad interview.

 

[lkthlttr]

What has your experience been like? Do you think you are at an advantage, or disadvantage, or are not sure?

I did a PhD before applying. On the whole, I would consider it neutral. Sometimes people are impressed by your previous experiences, sometimes they're put off. Everybody's going to have their opinions and prejudices so it's mostly luck of the draw.

Did the interviewers ask why you decided to make a career change?

Yes. Every time.

For those of you studying for the MCAT, did you find it helpful having the background knowledge you currently contain?

Yes. But you still have to go back and refamiliarize yourself with the fundamentals that you've long since forgotten.

 

[ShoTyme]

I am currently in the process of applying and studying for the MCAT. I think the biggest thing that helps me being a nontraditional student is that I have worked very hard in the past at my current professions. I understand what it takes to be the best at whatever I am doing. Therefore, I treat this endeavor as a career. I work harder than those around me, and I believe it shows. I will be putting that work ethic to the ultimate test as I study for the MCAT. I'm also sure that I will be asked as to "why medicine." I will be ready for that when the time comes.

 

[bassvp]

Hey everybody, good day!

I just am curious about all of you individuals who pursued other professional degrees or higher level degrees before deciding to go the medical route, MD & DO included,

MD & DO included? Going back to med school again?

Did the interviewers ask why you decided to make a career change?

Every single time...every....single...time. This is a GOOD thing though. If you have excellent answers to this question, you will have the opportunity to let your passion shine through. I think that perhaps the non-trad interview could be a little more predictable than a traditional interview. You know one of the questions coming your direction and can prepare well for it and truly believe in your answer. They will understand quickly if you have a higher maturity level than those younger than you and probably won't have to ask questions about your preparedness for medical school and what it takes to make it through.

For those of you studying for the MCAT, did you find it helpful having the background knowledge you currently contain?

Personally, no.