Secondary apps?

[phonyreal98]

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How long should I take to return secondary applications? I know they say in the video posted here a few days ago that it should be 1-2 weeks to let programs know that they're important. However, this timing is a bit tight for me since I'm working full time and since MD/PhD secondaries tend to be longer than MD only secondaries and it may take me a bit longer to get these applications in. Getting into an MD/PhD program important to me, but so is paying my bills!

Also, how important are secondary application essays in the context of everything else (GPA/MCAT, research, LORs, primary application material, clinical experience)?