Right now (or as early as possible) is definitely the time; admissions are on a rolling basis at most (all?) schools. Thus, the earlier you get your app in, the earlier you interview. The earlier you interview, the more seats will be available for you to fill. Maximize your odds! Get the 2nd-ary in as soon as you can.
Secondly (acually, in response to your first question), the schools are looking for *both* a) why medicine and b) why osteopathy. (see rhillstr's response to AZO's "Secondary Application Questions" listing)
In my essays, I simply went thru all the reasons why I am focused on becoming an osteopathic Primary Care Physician: academic performance, professional experience, life experience (don't leave it out!), and various skills/abilities that may make me unique among the pack. I didn't go for the stylized, ultra-creative ?ber-essay: my guess is that the admissions personnel are looking for unique, well-qualified people. Yes, an out-of-the-ordinary approach to an essay may get you a second look, but have all of the pertinent info there to back you up, as clearly and concisely as possible (wholly unlike this response!!!
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