Should I keep update letters generic to tailor it to schools?

[sarcasmrules]

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I have a big update (no it's not a new job but something I didn't get to disclose in my application that I realize I should have and I realized it after attending a conference). I'm just wondering if I should say "Dear [school name]" or say "Dear Admissions Committee". Also, should I just say what this new information has to offer their school and medicine and apply it to their mission or just say what it lets me offer and let them make the connection between it and their mission?

 

[Mr.Smile12]

If at first you don’t succeed, write an update letter! | SDN

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[AJS59]

I have a big update (no it's not a new job but something I didn't get to disclose in my application that I realize I should have and I realized it after attending a conference). I'm just wondering if I should say "Dear [school name]" or say "Dear Admissions Committee". Also, should I just say what this new information has to offer their school and medicine and apply it to their mission or just say what it lets me offer and let them make the connection between it and their mission?

Let them make the connection. Keep it as short and simple as possible.

 

[peachesandoranges]

Hm... I know you already got advice on this but I tailored all my update letters, still kept it to less than a page. I credit tailoring my letters with getting interviews at places like Harvard and Sinai and ultimately acceptance at Hms. Just don't go overboard, every sentence should be clear and purposeful

 

[sarcasmrules]

Hm... I know you already got advice on this but I tailored all my update letters, still kept it to less than a page. I credit tailoring my letters with getting interviews at places like Harvard and Sinai and ultimately acceptance at Hms. Just don't go overboard, every sentence should be clear and purposeful

Single or double space?

 

[AJS59]

Single or double space?

Double space is plenty

 

[peachesandoranges]

Oops not on this site often. But for future reference, mine were single spaced, about 3/4ths of the page

 

[LindaAccepted]

I have a big update (no it's not a new job but something I didn't get to disclose in my application that I realize I should have and I realized it after attending a conference). I'm just wondering if I should say "Dear [school name]" or say "Dear Admissions Committee". Also, should I just say what this new information has to offer their school and medicine and apply it to their mission or just say what it lets me offer and let them make the connection between it and their mission?

My advice would be to keep it short and tailor it.

 

[Moko]

I have a big update (no it's not a new job but something I didn't get to disclose in my application that I realize I should have and I realized it after attending a conference). I'm just wondering if I should say "Dear [school name]" or say "Dear Admissions Committee". Also, should I just say what this new information has to offer their school and medicine and apply it to their mission or just say what it lets me offer and let them make the connection between it and their mission?

'Dear Admissions Committee" or "Dear DOGE College of Medicine Admissions Committee" are fine. You will be mentioning their school's name at some point in the update, so I personally would go with the former. Just make sure you are referring to the right school! 😉

Also, your update letter should be concise and at least feel tailored to the school. This can be done by very briefly connecting your interest(s) to their mission, a particular strength or opportunity available at their school, location, etc. Just my thoughts.