totally new PS for reapplication??

[AndyMD]

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So, I believe there were probably several things about my application this cycle that hurt me (I applied really late in the cycle, I don't have too much clinical experience, my MCAT is only slightly above average) but I think what hurt me the worst was how late I applied. One of the reasons I applied so late was that I kept belaboring my personal statement, foolishly devoting most of August and September towards editing the thing. When I submitted it, however, I felt like it was perfect, down to the word. Now that I'm reapplying, though, should I scrap it and start again?

I got interviews at all the Texas schools to which I applied, but I've been waitlisted at the ones I was really hoping for (Southwestern and Baylor)... And interviewers seemed to like my PS, because most seemed to comment on something each had liked about it. My PS tries to show the origin of my motivation for medicine and healthcare, and what I've done as a result of recognizing that motivation -- so it's difficult for me to see how I might rewrite something that essentially hasn't changed over the years.

Do most people totally change their PS upon reapplication though? And does anyone think that seems like an artificial, repackaging of one's self, done only for the sake of emphasizing that one is not slacking off by using something old? I mean, it seems like the best written PS should stand on its own, as a reflection of the applicant, and shouldn't have to be changed when you reapply ... after all, I won't change my personality when I get reinterviewed -- that's going to stay the same. But maybe I only feel this way because I am trying to reapply without having had a chance to strengthen my application much, and I'm acknowledging the only difference in my case is when in the cycle I am applying... thoughts?

 

[sg4runner]

I understand what you mean about how your PS reflects you and your motivation for doing medicine perfectly. I'm in a similar situation, and I feel that just applying earlier will make a difference in my application, but I've heard from some post-bacc advisors that medical schools look down on sending in the exact same PS the second time around. You don't want to give the admissions committee any reason to look down on your app. I don't think a new PS seems like artificial repackaging... you don't HAVE to make major changes. Now, in your case, if you really feel your PS is unique and conveys who you are and why they should choose you, then maybe you could just update it a little. Keep in my mind this is just my opinion, but maybe you could just add in a few things about what you've learned throughout the application process, and talk about your continued motivation to reach your goal. Hope this helps.

Good luck!

 

[jdrake82]

i applied really late last year too. i worked on my ps until sept 1, the day i submitted my amcas app. my goal is to submit it completely by next week. i'm making a few revisions to my ps b/c i don't want to come across as lazy and sitting on my assets not trying to improve my app. otherwise, i think my ps is fine.

 

[bosox03]

Right now I am on 2 waitlists but am working on the 2005 AMCAS in case I need to reapply. Although I think my original PS was strong (I spoke about it at all of my interviews), I am trying to rewrite it. Its kind of a pain, but I think its a good idea to give the adcoms a different look the second time around.

 

[Nebmuse]

I applied to medical school three times before I was accepted. My PS was very similar the first two years, but I made MAJOR changes for the third time around. While I kept my main points, almost everything else was new. I had an exit interview last summer with my first choice school, where I will begin in August, and was told that if I submitted the same application, I would get the same result. I don't think you need to throw out your old PS but you want to make it look like you spent time trying to improve you application, right? Make sure your application has some new things. This may mean some of the other things have to go. While schools look for well rounded individuals, they also want somebody who has shown a good interest in medicine. I don't know what you are doing now, but look at getting a job in a lab or something along those lines. Also, find a physician to shadow in a field where you may be interested, even if it is once a month. It will give you something to talk about in interviews and will give you that much needed clinical exposure. Play up any clinical exposure as much as you can. Hit them over the head with your experience. Integrate it into your primary and secondary applications. As far at the timeline for submitting your application, the earlier the better. However, do not sacrifice quality for time. If you need to let it sit a week or two just to be sure it is perfect, do so.

If you don't get off those alternate lists this year, remember that everything happens for a reason and you will be better prepared and more mature when you do get in.

Good Luck!