The Princeton Review
Not every medical school applicant is a fresh–faced college undergraduate who has spent the past four years in a lab.
More and more people are applying to medical school later in life, perhaps after starting a family or pursuing another career. For these nontraditional applicants, going to medical school may seem as daunting as climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. It might not be easy, but it is definitely doable.
Here are a few things to consider before beginning the climb:
Post–Bacc Training
All medical schools require a minimum level of science preparation that includes approximately one year each of biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics. Many universities offer post–baccalaureate programs for students who need to fulfill pre–med requirements. Post–bacc programs vary in cost, duration, and selectivity of admissions.
Even if you fulfilled these requirements in college, taking a refresher course in biology or chemistry can strengthen your application. Most medical schools advise nontraditional applicants to demonstrate success in recent course work. And your professors and advisors from these programs can be among your pool of prospective recommenders.
Selling Yourself
Nontraditional applicants must work hard to prove that their choice to attend medical school is a thoroughly considered one. Even if your resume is impressive in other areas, you should add some medical–related volunteer work to show that you're committed to medicine and understand what practicing it is really like. Look into volunteer programs at health clinics, or find a part–time position as an EMT or nurse's aid.
Despite recognizing the value of nontraditional students, admissions committees may be skeptical of applicants embarking on their second or third career. You can address this concern in your essays and interviews by being very specific about how your life experiences have led you to pursue medicine. And remember, even the most exciting and unique older applicant must have a competitive GPA and MCAT score.
Back to School
For students returning to school after several years in the workforce, medical school will be an adjustment. The staggering amount of work will jar adults who aren't in the habit of spending their weekends in cram sessions and study groups. Needless to say, your new schedule can also be hard on friends, spouses, children – anyone used to seeing you on a regular basis. You should sit down with your partner or family to plan how you'll manage the medical school lifestyle.
Research what accommodations your prospective schools make for nontraditional applicants and how many older students are enrolled. If you have a spouse and/or children, ask to be put in contact with students in similar situations. Many medical schools have begun to develop support programs for families of nontraditional students.
Pursue Your Passion
We don't need to tell you that medical school is a serious — and time–consuming — commitment. It may take one or two years of basic science courses (and MCAT prep) before you can even apply. Then you face a minimum of seven years of medical school and residency.
Nontraditional applicants should think carefully about their financial and familial obligations. Don't jump in until you're sure that you want a life in medicine. If you are sure, then the sacrifices will be worth it.
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