The "how have you strengthened your application?" question

[TheIron]

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Hey guys, I just wanted some insight on the "if you have applied to this program before how have you strengthened your application" question. I applied last cycle to a few schools and did not get in. I am applying to many new programs this time around, and I am wondering if it would be counter productive to answer how I have strengthened my app even if I haven't applied to their program before. I worked my tail off trying to improve with my year off and think it would be a good addition, but I could be wrong! Thanks!

 

[NeuroRehabilitation]

They only require that essay under the condition that you have already applied to their program before. 1st time applicants are not considered re-applicants and it will demonstrate to them that you do not pay attention to details. My advice is to just apply to your schools and follow their instructions verbatim for the school specific questions. For the schools that rejected you last cycle, hopefully you've gotten feedback as to why and you can emphasize your growth in those re-applicant essays. Best of luck.

 

[okramango]

If you're talking about the PTCAS application, and some of your designated programs are reapplications, I think you should let them know how you worked your tail off improving your application (though not in that way of course 🙂 ). Your hard work looks good and shows your dedication. However, if you're talking about a non-PTCAS application to a specific school that you haven't applied to before, it's more appropriate to leave it blank.