Update question

[rhoaway]

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I was fortunate enough to recently be selected as a Rhodes Scholar. I am also in the middle of my application cycle. Would it be a good idea to update schools on this acheivement? My plan is to defer my acceptance to whatever school I decide on going to so that I can study on the scholarship for 2 years. Thus, if I were to update schools about this, it is a huge accomplishment but also implicitly tells them that if they accept me, I would almost certainly be deferring. I am not sure if that is a deterrent for schools if they know that one of their grads will be a rhodes scholar.

I would specifically like to know how T20 schools would see this as I have not received any IIs from them thus far. I feel like the likelihood of them being amenable to such an update is higher as they seem to value these awards more. Also, they are less likely to worry about me deferring my acceptance and then choosing to go somewhere else since they are desirable schools to attend in the first place. I especially want to send this as an update to T20s because otherwise I feel like my chances are slim at getting an II at these schools this cycle. This could boost me up enough to be noticed by them. I also don't want to reapply once I'm finishing up my rhodes because my MCAT expires this year and I REALLY don't want to retake it. I feel like I wouldn't be able to get the same/higher score if I retook it.

 

[CoitusInterruptus]

I was fortunate enough to recently be selected as a Rhodes Scholar. I am also in the middle of my application cycle. Would it be a good idea to update schools on this acheivement? My plan is to defer my acceptance to whatever school I decide on going to so that I can study on the scholarship for 2 years. Thus, if I were to update schools about this, it is a huge accomplishment but also implicitly tells them that if they accept me, I would almost certainly be deferring. I am not sure if that is a deterrent for schools if they know that one of their grads will be a rhodes scholar.

I would specifically like to know how T20 schools would see this as I have not received any IIs from them thus far. I feel like the likelihood of them being amenable to such an update is higher as they seem to value these awards more. Also, they are less likely to worry about me deferring my acceptance and then choosing to go somewhere else since they are desirable schools to attend in the first place. I especially want to send this as an update to T20s because otherwise I feel like my chances are slim at getting an II at these schools this cycle. This could boost me up enough to be noticed by them. I also don't want to reapply once I'm finishing up my rhodes because my MCAT expires this year and I REALLY don't want to retake it. I feel like I wouldn't be able to get the same/higher score if I retook it.

congrats, playa. you in the Hall of Fame now. you can go where ever the F you want. Why did you even come down from Mt Olympus?

 

[Moko]

Check each school's deferral policy. Some schools are more amenable than others in granting deferrals for educational pursuits, though I suspect most schools will grant deferrals for Rhodes scholarships. However, deferrals are only considered after someone has already been accepted, i.e. the strength of their current application was sufficient to warrant a spot in the incoming class.

Are you dead-set on becoming a Rhodes scholar? If so, then you don't have much to lose by letting schools know in a few weeks as a Hail Mary when interview slots are mostly dwindling anyways. Worst that can happen then is your still not getting a II. If additional concerns remain, you can always test the waters by only letting even-ranked (or odd-ranked) schools know of your award 😉 . Just my thoughts

 

[Engrailed]

Unless you are DEAD set on going to a particular T10-20 school and understand some of the potential risks with what Moko has mentioned above (Moko is an adcom!), I think you should TOTALLY go for the Rhodes opportunity. It's a once in a lifetime thing-people would give an arm or a leg for that sort of distinction. The networks and resources that would be available to you as a R scholar are immense.

I say go for it. Congratulations

 

[rhoaway]

Check each school's deferral policy. Some schools are more amenable than others in granting deferrals for educational pursuits, though I suspect most schools will grant deferrals for Rhodes scholarships. However, deferrals are only considered after someone has already been accepted, i.e. the strength of their current application was sufficient to warrant a spot in the incoming class.

Are you dead-set on becoming a Rhodes scholar? If so, then you don't have much to lose by letting schools know in a few weeks as a Hail Mary when interview slots are mostly dwindling anyways. Worst that can happen then is your still not getting a II. If additional concerns remain, you can always test the waters by only letting even-ranked (or odd-ranked) schools know of your award 😉 . Just my thoughts

I have one acceptance so far and even if they wouldn't be willing to grant me a deferral, I think I would still go for the Rhodes. I recognize how incredible of an opportunity it is. I am not sure if foregoing an acceptance is a wise decision if my ultimate goal is to be a doctor though. Can you give me an idea about how my chances would be if I reapplied a year and a half from now as a Rhodes Scholar? I know nothing is guaranteed in this process but would it be reasonable to assume that a Rhodes Scholarship would give me an extremely high chance of acceptance even as a reapplicant (that would be my 3rd application cycle)

 

[Moko]

I have one acceptance so far and even if they wouldn't be willing to grant me a deferral, I think I would still go for the Rhodes. I recognize how incredible of an opportunity it is. I am not sure if foregoing an acceptance is a wise decision if my ultimate goal is to be a doctor though. Can you give me an idea about how my chances would be if I reapplied a year and a half from now as a Rhodes Scholar? I know nothing is guaranteed in this process but would it be reasonable to assume that a Rhodes Scholarship would give me an extremely high chance of acceptance even as a reapplicant (that would be my 3rd application cycle)

Being a Rhodes scholar will be a major boost to one's application. However, as you said, nothing is guaranteed in this process.

 

[Lucca]

Do the Rhodes. This isn’t even a question. Do it. Update the schools that allow for updates. If they fight you tell em “k bye”.

 

[rhoaway]

Do the Rhodes. This isn’t even a question. Do it. Update the schools that allow for updates. If they fight you tell em “k bye”.

Oh yeah I am absolutely planning on doing it.

But do you think I should update the schools even if I haven't received an II yet?

 

[GloballyMed]

Oh yeah I am absolutely planning on doing it.

But do you think I should update the schools even if I haven't received an II yet?

Yes, I think you should definitely update them. It’s almost Thanksgiving and there aren’t many IIs to be given out. You’d want to give yourself the best possible chance to grab the last remaining few. Yours is a significant update so send that update to those that accept one. You have nothing to lose at this point and much to gain. Basically repeated what everyone just said lol. But congrats on the scholarship. You are baller!

 

[Lucca]

Oh yeah I am absolutely planning on doing it.

But do you think I should update the schools even if I haven't received an II yet?

update all the schools that will let u

 

[proudofmykids]

You indicate you want to be a physician. Despite the honor (congratulations) Why delay med school by two years? Not that it’s about money, but realize it will cost you two years of peak physician earnings over your career (minus any Rhodes stipend).

 

[Engrailed]

You indicate you want to be a physician. Despite the honor (congratulations) Why delay med school by two years? Not that it’s about money, but realize it will cost you two years of peak physician earnings over your career (minus any Rhodes stipend).

sometime’s life is not all about money.
and there are quite a few physicians/some very well known who go on to do amazing things with their MD and their Rhodes background. What the OP has is an enormous life achievement even more than MD. We should encourage OP to maximize the utility of that award. Not question their desire to become a physician.

 

[rhoaway]

You indicate you want to be a physician. Despite the honor (congratulations) Why delay med school by two years? Not that it’s about money, but realize it will cost you two years of peak physician earnings over your career (minus any Rhodes stipend).

You raise a valid point but I think that the Rhodes will provide a set of opportunities and connections that aren't necessarily fully quantifiable but much more valuable. And frankly, I feel like if maximizing earnings was my prerogative (and this is far from the case), I could again leverage my Rhodes experience to make up for those years of lost earnings. Like @Engrailed touched on, some of the most high-acheiving, high-earning, and renowned physicians were once Rhodes Scholars (Leana Wen, Siddhartha Mukherjee, Atul Gawande). Who knows if their accomplishments were because of the scholarship itself but it is a pretty striking common link!

 

[theKingLT]

sometime’s life is not all about money.
and there are quite a few physicians/some very well known who go on to do amazing things with their MD and their Rhodes background. What the OP has is an enormous life achievement even more than MD. We should encourage OP to maximize the utility of that award. Not question their desire to become a physician.

Questioning their desire to become a physician is exactly what adcoms will do in 2 years when reapplying if OP turns down their only acceptance. It probably wont matter because he/she will likely be a very strong applicantwith the rest of the boxes checked, and adcoms are diverse in opinion, but why limit yourself and increase risk?

Do the rhodes, but only on deferral, dont turn down an acceptance for it, especially as a reapplicant! The idea that it's a once in a lifetime experience is balogny. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to put a big name on your CV, so if that's what's most important to you than i guess go for it, but ask yourself what exactly about the opportunity is so enticing as to make you want to risk your future as a physician? How hard/competitive it was to get?- sunken cost fallacy. Want to experience living abroad- you will have plenty of money for that in the future as a U.S. physician. Research, study, etc.,-you name it, you will be able to do whatever the hell you want as a physician. Dont get me wrong, there's a lot of value in taking this award. I'm on an academic deferral from entering med school right now and love it, but I would never have turned down an acceptance for it and stand by that notion.

 

[theKingLT]

You raise a valid point but I think that the Rhodes will provide a set of opportunities and connections that aren't necessarily fully quantifiable but much more valuable. And frankly, I feel like if maximizing earnings was my prerogative (and this is far from the case), I could again leverage my Rhodes experience to make up for those years of lost earnings. Like @Engrailed touched on, some of the most high-acheiving, high-earning, and renowned physicians were once Rhodes Scholars (Leana Wen, Siddhartha Mukherjee, Atul Gawande). Who knows if their accomplishments were because of the scholarship itself but it is a pretty striking common link!

High achieving does not equate to high earning in medicine. You want to be high earning you generally stay out of academia

 

[theKingLT]

You raise a valid point but I think that the Rhodes will provide a set of opportunities and connections that aren't necessarily fully quantifiable but much more valuable. And frankly, I feel like if maximizing earnings was my prerogative (and this is far from the case), I could again leverage my Rhodes experience to make up for those years of lost earnings. Like @Engrailed touched on, some of the most high-acheiving, high-earning, and renowned physicians were once Rhodes Scholars (Leana Wen, Siddhartha Mukherjee, Atul Gawande). Who knows if their accomplishments were because of the scholarship itself but it is a pretty striking common link!

High achieving does not equate to high earning in medicine. You want to be high earning you generally stay out of academia

 

[Engrailed]

Questioning their desire to become a physician is exactly what adcoms will do in 2 years when reapplying if OP turns down their only acceptance. It probably wont matter because he/she will likely be a very strong applicantwith the rest of the boxes checked, and adcoms are diverse in opinion, but why limit yourself and increase risk?

Do the rhodes, but only on deferral, dont turn down an acceptance for it, especially as a reapplicant! The idea that it's a once in a lifetime experience is balogny. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to put a big name on your CV, so if that's what's most important to you than i guess go for it, but ask yourself what exactly about the opportunity is so enticing as to make you want to risk your future as a physician? How hard/competitive it was to get?- sunken cost fallacy. Want to experience living abroad- you will have plenty of money for that in the future as a U.S. physician. Research, study, etc.,-you name it, you will be able to do whatever the hell you want as a physician. Dont get me wrong, there's a lot of value in taking this award. I'm on an academic deferral from entering med school right now and love it, but I would never have turned down an acceptance for it and stand by that notion.

I think that schools/adcoms who reject an applicant for pursuing the Rhodes (which produces leaders across ALL disciplines-including MEDICINE) are in the wrong. I suppose some schools would care about deferral but usually for those God Tier schools where they want to produce future leaders/change makers, I dont think they would view this negatively.

 

[theKingLT]

I think that schools/adcoms who reject an applicant for pursuing the Rhodes (which produces leaders across ALL disciplines-including MEDICINE) are in the wrong. I suppose some schools would care about deferral but usually for those God Tier schools where they want to produce future leaders/change makers, I dont think they would view this negatively.

I agree with you that it wouldn't be smart on the school's part to view the decision as a negative, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't happen. T20 schools do deny referral requests for competitive international awards in academia or service so it's not a stretch to think that turning down an acceptance could be held against the student in the same light. Lets also not forget that OP has only one acceptance right now and no t20 interview invites. It's still early enough in the cycle for things to change significantly but if OP finishes with only one acceptance that is even more of a reason to not burn that bridge just to try again in 2 years.

As a sidenote, big props to OP for considering applying a THIRD time unnecessarily. Its a long, stressful, and expensive process so you got some persistence that i suppose is admirable

 

[rhoaway]

I agree with you that it wouldn't be smart on the school's part to view the decision as a negative, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't happen. T20 schools do deny referral requests for competitive international awards in academia or service so it's not a stretch to think that turning down an acceptance could be held against the student in the same light. Lets also not forget that OP has only one acceptance right now and no t20 interview invites. It's still early enough in the cycle for things to change significantly but if OP finishes with only one acceptance that is even more of a reason to not burn that bridge just to try again in 2 years.

As a sidenote, big props to OP for considering applying a THIRD time unnecessarily. Its a long, stressful, and expensive process so you got some persistence that i suppose is admirable

I actually checked the school's website and it said something that they encourage deferrals for intellectually and personally rewarding pursuits or something like that. So I think I'll be fine in that regard.

But I don't follow your logic on why a higher ranking school would be less likely to grant a deferral. In my mind, it makes sense that the lower ranking schools would be more reticent of granting deferrals because now with the Rhodes under one's belt, they can easily reapply and shoot for a higher ranked school. But those higher ranked schools wouldn't have that apprehension, because they are already the most desirable ones.

 

[gonnif]

While most medical schools typically allow deferral for one year, Rhodes is one of those they may grant extensions. Additionally this is a major accomplishment that is worthy of an update.

Harvard Deferral policy
HMS recognizes that special opportunities may arise during the application year. The Faculty Associate Dean for Admissions approves requests for deferral on a case-by-case basis. Accepted students who would like to apply for deferral must submit a request stating their reason for requesting deferral and their proposed plans for the duration of the deferral. If approved, the deferral is typically granted for one year, although they are routinely renewed for students involved in multi-year fellowship programs (e.g., Rhodes, Marshall). The Committee on Admissions only supports proposals that provide for participation in intellectually rewarding opportunities and service programs during the time of deferral from HMS.

Prerequisites, Requirements and Policies | Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine M.D. Program
Admitted students may request to defer their matriculation by April 15. The Deferral Committee will consider requests individually and will typically grant deferrals for research, academic programs (graduate studies, scholarship) or service programs. Deferrals are usually allowed for one or two years.

I actually checked the school's website and it said something that they encourage deferrals for intellectually and personally rewarding pursuits or something like that. So I think I'll be fine in that regard.

But I don't follow your logic on why a higher ranking school would be less likely to grant a deferral. In my mind, it makes sense that the lower ranking schools would be more reticent of granting deferrals because now with the Rhodes under one's belt, they can easily reapply and shoot for a higher ranked school. But those higher ranked schools wouldn't have that apprehension, because they are already the most desirable ones.

I would say that the higher ranked/more prestigious/research power houses would look favorably on deferral for a prestigious pursuit like Rhodes. Even schools that note a strict one year policy are likely to approve you for this

 

[rhoaway]

While most medical schools typically allow deferral for one year, Rhodes is one of those they may grant extensions. Additionally this is a major accomplishment that is worthy of an update.

Harvard Deferral policy
HMS recognizes that special opportunities may arise during the application year. The Faculty Associate Dean for Admissions approves requests for deferral on a case-by-case basis. Accepted students who would like to apply for deferral must submit a request stating their reason for requesting deferral and their proposed plans for the duration of the deferral. If approved, the deferral is typically granted for one year, although they are routinely renewed for students involved in multi-year fellowship programs (e.g., Rhodes, Marshall). The Committee on Admissions only supports proposals that provide for participation in intellectually rewarding opportunities and service programs during the time of deferral from HMS.

Prerequisites, Requirements and Policies | Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine M.D. Program
Admitted students may request to defer their matriculation by April 15. The Deferral Committee will consider requests individually and will typically grant deferrals for research, academic programs (graduate studies, scholarship) or service programs. Deferrals are usually allowed for one or two years.



I would say that the higher ranked/more prestigious/research power houses would look favorably on deferral for a prestigious pursuit like Rhodes. Even schools that note a strict one year policy are likely to approve you for this

Thanks a lot! What is your take on sending an update to schools like the ones you have cited even before having received an II from them?

 

[gonnif]

Thanks a lot! What is your take on sending an update to schools like the ones you have cited even before having received an II from them?

I think Rhodes is one of the very few things that is worthy of a pre-II. Make it short and sweet

 

[theKingLT]

I actually checked the school's website and it said something that they encourage deferrals for intellectually and personally rewarding pursuits or something like that. So I think I'll be fine in that regard.

But I don't follow your logic on why a higher ranking school would be less likely to grant a deferral. In my mind, it makes sense that the lower ranking schools would be more reticent of granting deferrals because now with the Rhodes under one's belt, they can easily reapply and shoot for a higher ranked school. But those higher ranked schools wouldn't have that apprehension, because they are already the most desirable ones.

I dont think a higher ranked school would be less likely to grant a deferral, i think they would be more likely, but that doesnt mean it can't be held against you. My point was that it's not universally acceptable no matter what tier of school you're talking about. My deferral request was accepted and rejected from T20s and non-T20s alike. My award wasn't as prestigious as yours, but when they reject your deferral it's not because the award wasn't prestigious enough but because they have to worry about filling the incoming class more than anything else! Since you already have an acceptance and want to gun for a higher ranked school, updating might prove beneficial or might bite you in the ass, no one can say with certainty either way. Personally I would update the schools that are academic powerhouses with entirely need-based aid systems like Harvard or Columbia on the award because that way you're not putting a merit scholarship opportunity on the line by committing to a deferral out the gate. Above all I would not recommend turning down the acceptance you already have if they don't grant you the deferral! Not until you get another acceptance anyway.

Question for @gonnif because im curious. When OP updates schools on this, does he mention he already has an acceptance? Basically put all the cards on the table so they know he/she won't be reapplying in 2 years?

 

[OfMiceAndWomen]

I thought they didn’t announce Rhodes Scholar until the weekend before Thanksgiving, as that’s when the final round of interviews are?

In any case, I’m almost 100% sure all med schools will let you defer for the Rhodes. Most schools esp T10-20 will kill to be able to increase the number of Rhodes scholars they matriculate.

I also would argue that being a Rhodes Scholar will almost guarantee acceptance into top med schools, except if you present as a psychopath. The rigor of the Rhodes competition is more stringent than the competition of med school, and Rhodes is already very conducive to what med schools look for (3.9+ GPA, strong demonstrated intellectual curiosity, exceptional dedication to public service, strong social skills — the final interview is essentially a cocktail reception).

 

[rhoaway]

I dont think a higher ranked school would be less likely to grant a deferral, i think they would be more likely, but that doesnt mean it can't be held against you. My point was that it's not universally acceptable no matter what tier of school you're talking about. My deferral request was accepted and rejected from T20s and non-T20s alike. My award wasn't as prestigious as yours, but when they reject your deferral it's not because the award wasn't prestigious enough but because they have to worry about filling the incoming class more than anything else! Since you already have an acceptance and want to gun for a higher ranked school, updating might prove beneficial or might bite you in the ass, no one can say with certainty either way. Personally I would update the schools that are academic powerhouses with entirely need-based aid systems like Harvard or Columbia on the award because that way you're not putting a merit scholarship opportunity on the line by committing to a deferral out the gate. Above all I would not recommend turning down the acceptance you already have if they don't grant you the deferral! Not until you get another acceptance anyway.

Question for @gonnif because im curious. When OP updates schools on this, does he mention he already has an acceptance? Basically put all the cards on the table so they know he/she won't be reapplying in 2 years?

How do you figure updating schools about the Rhodes would put me out of the running for merit aid?

 

[rhoaway]

I thought they didn’t announce Rhodes Scholar until the weekend before Thanksgiving, as that’s when the final round of interviews are?

In any case, I’m almost 100% sure all med schools will let you defer for the Rhodes. Most schools esp T10-20 will kill to be able to increase the number of Rhodes scholars they matriculate.

I also would argue that being a Rhodes Scholar will almost guarantee acceptance into top med schools, except if you present as a psychopath. The rigor of the Rhodes competition is more stringent than the competition of med school, and Rhodes is already very conducive to what med schools look for (3.9+ GPA, strong demonstrated intellectual curiosity, exceptional dedication to public service, strong social skills — the final interview is essentially a cocktail reception).

My worry is that if I were to reapply, my MCAT would not be nearly as good as my current score (which is good but not AMAZING (less than 517)) and that, along with being a 3rd time applicant may limit some prospects in the T20s and T10s.

 

[OfMiceAndWomen]

My worry is that if I were to reapply, my MCAT would not be nearly as good as my current score (which is good but not AMAZING (less than 517)) and that, along with being a 3rd time applicant may limit some prospects in the T20s and T10s.

If you are selected as Rhodes scholar this year, you should do well in this application cycle, and should not have to re-apply. Update all schools about the scholarship. Continue with the application cycle and see which med schools you get into. Pick the one you like best, and ask for a deferral. Go study in the UK. Then go to med school.

I also want to give you the benefit of the doubt but I’m pretty sure Rhodes scholars have not been decided yet. Do you mean you were selected as a finalist?

 

[gonnif]

Question for @gonnif because im curious. When OP updates schools on this, does he mention he already has an acceptance? Basically put all the cards on the table so they know he/she won't be reapplying in 2 years?

If It was post interview, I would say yes; it is before interview but with invite not sure.

here its before getting II, so I would say do not mention acceptance. A school may not want to expend late and limited II slots to an acceptee elsewhere with Rhodes scholarship, knowing they are going to defer for 2 years. Thinking about I would say definately do not mention acceptance

 

[rhoaway]

If It was post interview, I would say yes; it is before interview but with invite not sure.

here its before getting II, so I would say do not mention acceptance. A school may not want to expend late and limited II slots to an acceptee elsewhere with Rhodes scholarship, knowing they are going to defer for 2 years. Thinking about I would say definately do not mention acceptance

Ok this made me think of some more questions.

1) I have a few schools (mid to low tier) where I interviewed but am waiting to hear back. When I update them, should I mention I have other acceptances and frame the update in the context of "I would rather go to your school"

2) I have some schools where I have been invited but not yet interviewed. I am assuming it would be best to wait until after the interview to update about Rhodes?

 

[rhoaway]

Also, what info should I include so that the adcoms can verify that I received the scholarship? Should I just list the contact info of someone in charge?

 

[theKingLT]

How do you figure updating schools about the Rhodes would put me out of the running for merit aid?

Schools cant necessarily promise scholarships 2 years down the line. At Baylor before I was even able to speak with the Dean I was told by the administrator answering the phone that there was essentially no chance that my merit offer would be extended for deferral because "we don't do that here". Sure enough she was right. Some schools will give deferred scholarships but to improve your odds I would recommend waiting until after those scholarship decisions are in. At least with need-based only schools you don't have to worry about that.

Overall there are not a lot of people that find themselves in your position so evidence on the best course of action is going to be limited, anecdotal, and opinion based. Your best bet is probably going to be based on your priorities. When i was applying, after the first acceptance I decided scholarship money was the next priority, and my app was strong enough without an award update that I thought i had a good shot, so I didnt want to risk a deferral update that could potentially put me out of the running for scholarships. It worked out well for me but like I said n=1, and there's just not enough people in your situation to get a good impression of the outcomes. Just know that this award is not necessarily willy wonkas golden ticket, and applying with the intention to defer CAN be a huge disadvantage, whether talking about admissions or scholarships.

 

[theKingLT]

Also, what info should I include so that the adcoms can verify that I received the scholarship? Should I just list the contact info of someone in charge?

That's not necessary unless they ask. I think winners are published anyways, no? So its not exactly something you can lie about =)

 

[candbgirl]

If you are selected as Rhodes scholar this year, you should do well in this application cycle, and should not have to re-apply. Update all schools about the scholarship. Continue with the application cycle and see which med schools you get into. Pick the one you like best, and ask for a deferral. Go study in the UK. Then go to med school.

I also want to give you the benefit of the doubt but I’m pretty sure Rhodes scholars have not been decided yet. Do you mean you were selected as a finalist?

You are right. Interviews are November 22 and 23
....

d. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a social engagement (a welcoming reception on the day of the first interviews or the day before) and a final interview. You must be available to attend both, in person, as no accommodations can be made on date and time, or mode, of these events. Interviews will be held simultaneously in the 16 respective U.S. District Meeting City locations on the Friday and Saturday preceding the annual Thanksgiving holiday, i.e. 22 and 23 November 2019. No candidate will be selected without an interview. PLEASE NOTE: All candidates invited to interview are expected to cover their own expenses.
e. All applicants will be notified with a decision regarding whether or not they will be offered an interview. Winners for the U.S. Rhodes Scholarships are immediately announced in each district, after the conclusion of their respective interviews.

 

[gonnif]

Ok this made me think of some more questions.

1) I have a few schools (mid to low tier) where I interviewed but am waiting to hear back. When I update them, should I mention I have other acceptances and frame the update in the context of "I would rather go to your school"

2) I have some schools where I have been invited but not yet interviewed. I am assuming it would be best to wait until after the interview to update about Rhodes?

1) update the schools, but telling them you want them better as they are your top choice, they all cant be. i would say something like, "while I have been fortunate to receive an acceptance this cycle, after interviewing at your school, if offered an acceptance, I would most likely choose to matriculate at NAME OF SCHOOL" @Goro @Moko what are your thoughts

2) If you II, you make damn sure to tell them, hell this is one of those rare things I would send an update

Also, what info should I include so that the adcoms can verify that I received the scholarship? Should I just list the contact info of someone in charge?

I would send them a copy of the award letter as part of the update, though it is not necessary. If you update them, accept and they later find out you didnt get a Rhodes, you will have acceptance rescinded and, at this level, the school is likely to report you to AMCAS. This would mean NEVER being allowed in MD school

 

[gonnif]

If you are selected as Rhodes scholar this year, you should do well in this application cycle, and should not have to re-apply. Update all schools about the scholarship. Continue with the application cycle and see which med schools you get into. Pick the one you like best, and ask for a deferral. Go study in the UK. Then go to med school.

I also want to give you the benefit of the doubt but I’m pretty sure Rhodes scholars have not been decided yet. Do you mean you were selected as a finalist?

If you defer, you always have to resubmit to AMCAS for the school that deferred you

 

[gonnif]

How do you figure updating schools about the Rhodes would put me out of the running for merit aid?

Schools cant necessarily promise scholarships 2 years down the line. At Baylor before I was even able to speak with the Dean I was told by the administrator answering the phone that there was essentially no chance that my merit offer would be extended for deferral because "we don't do that here". Sure enough she was right. Some schools will give deferred scholarships but to improve your odds I would recommend waiting until after those scholarship decisions are in. At least with need-based only schools you don't have to worry about that.

Overall there are not a lot of people that find themselves in your position so evidence on the best course of action is going to be limited, anecdotal, and opinion based. Your best bet is probably going to be based on your priorities. When i was applying, after the first acceptance I decided scholarship money was the next priority, and my app was strong enough without an award update that I thought i had a good shot, so I didnt want to risk a deferral update that could potentially put me out of the running for scholarships. It worked out well for me but like I said n=1, and there's just not enough people in your situation to get a good impression of the outcomes. Just know that this award is not necessarily willy wonkas golden ticket, and applying with the intention to defer CAN be a huge disadvantage, whether talking about admissions or scholarships.

If the acceptee chooses to defer, all aid considerations will be put off until matriculation year

 

[OfMiceAndWomen]

If you defer, you always have to resubmit to AMCAS for the school that deferred you

Oh, I did not know that. In that case, does your MCAT still have to be valid when you resubmit? And does this mean there is also a chance (albeit small) that you wouldn't get accepted if you resubmitted?

 

[gonnif]

Oh, I did not know that. In that case, does your MCAT still have to be valid when you resubmit? And does this mean there is also a chance (albeit small) that you wouldn't get accepted if you resubmitted?

No, you dont need a new MCAT and you will be matriculated unless you violated specific provisions of the deferral agreement

 

[Moko]

1) update the schools, but telling them you want them better as they are your top choice, they all cant be. i would say something like, "while I have been fortunate to receive an acceptance this cycle, after interviewing at your school, if offered an acceptance, I would most likely choose to matriculate at NAME OF SCHOOL" @Goro @Moko what are your thoughts

2) If you II, you make damn sure to tell them, hell this is one of those rare things I would send an update

I would send them a copy of the award letter as part of the update, though it is not necessary. If you update them, accept and they later find out you didnt get a Rhodes, you will have acceptance rescinded and, at this level, the school is likely to report you to AMCAS. This would mean NEVER being allowed in MD school

1) Personally, I don't think letting them know of other acceptances will help. It's pretty much assumed that those who interview at these schools will have options (not necessarily in the same 'tier'), and that if accepted, the school's reputation and resources will help sway students in their direction. In my opinion, the times when letting schools know of other acceptances will be helpful is when a highly competitive student signals to a low- or mid-tier school of their desire to matriculate there due to geographic considerations, etc.
2) I agree. I would let them know about the Rhodes scholarship during the interview or shortly thereafter. While being selected for this award will be a good boost, much like 'future activities', the full benefit of this scholarship won't be seen until after its completion. So their current application still needs to stand on its own merit to warrant an acceptance.
3) I agree with sending a copy of the award letter if this is mentioned pre- or post-interview, just for formality's sake. It's easy to verify either way. If someone is found to lie about this award, they will be removed from consideration / be kicked out of medical school.

 

[Goro]

1) Personally, I don't think letting them know of other acceptances will help. It's pretty much assumed that those who interview at these schools will have options (not necessarily in the same 'tier'), and that if accepted, the school's reputation and resources will help sway students in their direction. In my opinion, the times when letting schools know of other acceptances will be helpful is when a highly competitive student signals to a low- or mid-tier school of their desire to matriculate there due to geographic considerations, etc.
2) I agree. I would let them know about the Rhodes scholarship during the interview or shortly thereafter. While being selected for this award will be a good boost, much like 'future activities', the full benefit of this scholarship won't be seen until after its completion. So their current application still needs to stand on its own merit to warrant an acceptance.
3) I agree with sending a copy of the award letter if this is mentioned pre- or post-interview, just for formality's sake. It's easy to verify either way. If someone is found to lie about this award, they will be removed from consideration / be kicked out of medical school.

I agree with Moko.

 

[theKingLT]

If the acceptee chooses to defer, all aid considerations will be put off until matriculation year

This would be a significant reason to NOT disclose the deferral right now, but it's also not universally true, unless you're talking about need-based aid. I had various merit scholarships ensured with deferral. Most were recieved before the deferral request, but there was one where I got off a waitlist so I of course wasn't going to wait to talk about deferral. I requested merit money and the deferral at the same time. The school gave me both, albeit less money than I had requested to get me to change my school choice. But it was also a rich school to begin with, with lots of merit money to throw around. The point is the policy is going to depend on the school, and given that merit money is largely used for recruiting purposes, you wouldn't want to end up in the boat of being considered after deferral, because you have to commit to one school prior to deferral, losing all your leverage. If a merit scholarship is OP's priority, I don't think disclosing the award is the smartest move

 

[rhoaway]

If the acceptee chooses to defer, all aid considerations will be put off until matriculation year

Even if the school offers me merit aid before I defer? Like if I were to update them right now about the scholarship, I get accepted with merit aid, is it then rescinded and re-offered matriculation year? Or are you saying that schools will be less likely to offer merit aid to begin with if I tell them about this scholarship?

 

[theKingLT]

Even if the school offers me merit aid before I defer? Like if I were to update them right now about the scholarship, I get accepted with merit aid, is it then rescinded and re-offered matriculation year? Or are you saying that schools will be less likely to offer merit aid to begin with if I tell them about this scholarship?

See my post above. It depends on the school. Since they will already know that you want to defer many will likely not even consider you for merit aid as that stuff is generally determined one year at a time (most schools work with a very limited number of scholarships). Those schools would theoretically reconsider you 2 years later when you plan to matriculate but since you will already be committed to one school at that point, you have a much lower chance of getting a scholarship. Your best bet is to get a scholarship offer first, then request the deferral and hope that they will secure your scholarship with the deferral. Having multiple scholarship offers would help you significantly in this case

 

[rhoaway]

If you defer, you always have to resubmit to AMCAS for the school that deferred you

If I defer, can I also apply to other schools without losing my spot in the school I have a deferral at?

 

[Moko]

If I defer, can I also apply to other schools without losing my spot in the school I have a deferral at?

No. Deferrals are granted with the understanding that you will matriculate in the time-frame specified, and that you will not apply to other schools. The school is guaranteeing you a spot in a future class, and you are guaranteeing your eventual matriculation to their school. Not honoring this agreement in good faith will 'void' the deferral and result in your acceptance being rescinded.

Can anyone give me advice on whether or not if I should mention the courses/degrees I'm pursuing in the letter? Right now I have it something along the lines of "pursuing two Master's in X and Y" and it just sounds like I'm implying I will be out of comission for so long when it is just 2 years. But at the same time, I want them to know which fields I'm pursuing.

Don't make this more complicated than it needs to be. Any communication with the school should be short and sweet. If someone were to offer you a million bucks, will you care whether the bills were printed in DC vs TX?

 

[Engrailed]

Oh man. I didn't realize that. I thought if I deferred I could also apply to other schools later on without the deferred school knowing. That really sucks but it makes sense.

What you’re intending or thought of doing sounds like really bad judgment/ethics to me. With a potential deferred seat, you’re essentially asking schools to guarantee a spot for you the following year.
you’re concerned about whether aid/seat etc will be there when you do attend yet you’re also trying to go behind the school’s back and maybe even shoot for other/better schools simultaneously? That’s like screwing them over after belaboring all the discussion about whether schools will honor your deferral etc. They are not a placeholder or some backup choice.

Think about it: there is zero incentive for schools to give out deferrals at all if would-be matriculants went off and applied to other schools anyway in the meantime and did not honor the agreement.

 

[rhoaway]

What you’re intending or thought of doing sounds like really bad judgment/ethics to me. With a potential deferred seat, you’re essentially asking schools to guarantee a spot for you the following year.
you’re concerned about whether aid/seat etc will be there when you do attend yet you’re also trying to go behind the school’s back and maybe even shoot for other/better schools simultaneously? That’s like screwing them over after belaboring all the discussion about whether schools will honor your deferral etc.
Think about it: there is zero incentive for schools to give out deferrals at all if would-be matriculants went off and applied to other schools anyway in the meantime and did not honor the agreement.

Yep. I totally understand why schools would have such a policy. They have their own interests to look out for. I just was unsure if such a policy was the norm.

 

[gonnif]

Oh man. I didn't realize that. I thought if I deferred I could also apply to other schools later on without the deferred school knowing. That really sucks but it makes sense.

Why would you possibly think that? For someone who is in contention for a Rhodes scholarship, your judgement and ability to analyze this situation seems questionable. You have applied in a cycle, then defer matriculation. You have already agreed to matriculate and but you want to be able to apply elsewhere after a school waits for you for two years? You may academically smart and hardworking but man what a self-centered assumption

 

[Engrailed]

Why would you possibly think that? For someone who is in contention for a Rhodes scholarship, your judgement and ability to analyze this situation seems questionable. You have applied in a cycle, then defer matriculation. You have already agreed to matriculate and but you want to be able to apply elsewhere after a school waits for you for two years? You may academically smart and hardworking but man what a self-centered assumption

seriously, OP must be a troll honestly.

 

[rhoaway]

Yeah, you guys are right. Awful outlook to have. Thanks for smacking some sense into me.