Siting a specific researcher?

[UnassumingToad]

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Hey guys, I am really interested in research-oriented MD programs and I am wondering if it is okay to mention specific researchers that you are interested in for the "why do you want to come to X school?" prompt. Obviously I would supplement this by discussing programs, parts of the curriculum, and unique aspects of the school that I like. Thoughts?

Thanks in advance!



edit.... and I realized I spelled 'citing' wrong in the title. Apologies!

 

[UnassumingToad]

Anyone have thoughts?

 

[Goro]

Hey guys, I am really interested in research-oriented MD programs and I am wondering if it is okay to mention specific researchers that you are interested in for the "why do you want to come to X school?" prompt. Obviously I would supplement this by discussing programs, parts of the curriculum, and unique aspects of the school that I like. Thoughts?

Thanks in advance!



edit.... and I realized I spelled 'citing' wrong in the title. Apologies!

It's fine. I did that for when I applied to grad schools.

The caveat is that if I were interviewing you, Id ask you why not get a PhD? Or, suppose you go into Dr X's lab, and find out he's an dingus?

IF you have done research int he past, and Dr X, Y or Z's research is similar, you have a better leg to stand on when you throw names out.

 

[flyingeagle]

Hey guys, I am really interested in research-oriented MD programs and I am wondering if it is okay to mention specific researchers that you are interested in for the "why do you want to come to X school?" prompt. Obviously I would supplement this by discussing programs, parts of the curriculum, and unique aspects of the school that I like. Thoughts?

Thanks in advance!



edit.... and I realized I spelled 'citing' wrong in the title. Apologies!

I did this when applying to MD schools, but I was careful in the way I worded it. I'd usually simply mention the lab the researcher is in, like "I would be able to pursue my interest in pediatrics by performing research in the Child Aging Lab." If I did mention a researcher, I'd first say how the school has many resources that fit my interest and cite the researcher as an example of the school's resources. Seemed to work for me!

 

[UnassumingToad]

It's fine. I did that for when I applied to grad schools.

The caveat is that if I were interviewing you, Id ask you why not get a PhD? Or, suppose you go into Dr X's lab, and find out he's an dingus?

IF you have done research int he past, and Dr X, Y or Z's research is similar, you have a better leg to stand on when you throw names out.

Thanks so much Goro! I definitely have a number of experiences relating to the research mentor I am referring to, so I will definitely make that connection. I'll also be sure to have a solid answer to those questions should I get the opportunity to interview!

I did this when applying to MD schools, but I was careful in the way I worded it. I'd usually simply mention the lab the researcher is in, like "I would be able to pursue my interest in pediatrics by performing research in the Child Aging Lab." If I did mention a researcher, I'd first say how the school has many resources that fit my interest and cite the researcher as an example of the school's resources. Seemed to work for me!

Thanks so much for the reply. I just wanted to make sure it was kosher to include! I would only include this detail in schools that are very research oriented.