To Be...A Spartan MD

By Brian Ulrich, MA *** With all of the ways that physicians are portrayed on television and movies these days, it can be easy to form a certain perception of what it means to be a doctor. Often, these portrayals have less to do with healthcare and more to do with an actor’s physical appearance, status, power, or on-screen charisma. This image, however, is a mirage . The point here is that it can be easy to mentally put ourselves in certain boxes based on messages that we receive or perceive from the world around us. While these boxes can be empowering for some, they are often very limiting for others. Literature within the field of student affairs calls this “ meaning making ”, or, put another way, the way we make sense of our individual identities based on the messages we receive from the world around us. So, as a prospective student to medical school, what types of messages are you receiving from the world around you about pursuing medicine as a career? What kinds of infere...

The MSU College of Human Medicine (CHM) is one of the many medical schools that prospective students can apply to via the Early Decision Program (EDP). Those looking to participate in EDP must submit their AMCAS application by Friday, August 1st. Before applying through EDP, however, applicants need to decide whether this route to medical school is right for you. It's extremely important you fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of applying as an EDP candidate. What is the Early Decision Program and how does it work? Simply put, the Early Decision Program allows prospective medical students to apply early and be assured of a prompt response. EDP applicants apply to one U.S. medical school with the full intention of attending if accepted. The school, in turn, agrees to notify an applicant of a decision by October 1st—much earlier than a regular admissions process, which can extend into the following spring. People go the EDP route when they have a clear fir...

The College of Human Medicine (CHM) kicks off its second annual Gran Fondo this Saturday with proceeds once again going towards skin cancer awareness, prevention, and research. The Gran Fondo is a non-competitive cycling event for riders of all skill levels. Beginning in downtown Grand Rapids, participants can choose between four different routes ranging in distance, including a scenic 80-mile trek to Lake Michigan on the state's gorgeous west coast. Over 1,500 riders participated in CHM's inaugural Gran Fondo Along the routes, riders can also enjoy catered rest stops offering the area's finest cuisine. Riders will return downtown after snaking through the cityscape and West Michigan countryside, as the event culminates with the Finish Line Festival . The public can welcome back riders outside the B.O.B. at this post-ride celebration combining live music, craft brews, wine, and great food. Italian for "Big Ride," Gran Fondos are typically long d...

Sure, getting in some relaxation over the summer to recharge should be on the agenda. Yet keep in mind that the summer months can be vital in acquiring the exposure and/or training necessary to pursue higher degrees in any competitive field. If you're thinking about applying to medical school next year, consider this a great time to springboard yourself into the school year and, ultimately, the medical school application process . The med school application process is competitive. The majority of applicants hold impressive academic profiles each year. Factors like experience and the personal statement are great ways candidates set themselves apart. While it's understandable that carving out time to gain a good amount of experience can be difficult to do, prospective applicants should not feel like they need to gain really extravagant experiences from summer months, as some may not be able to afford taking the summer off to travel. Others may need to work to supp...

While the current application cycle approaches its final stages, another begins with the next group of wide-eyed #medschool hopefuls, carrying more dreams of scrubs, stethoscopes and surgery rooms. Within the incoming wave of applicants, perhaps no one knows how competitive the medical school application process is more than unsuccessful applicants. Less than 45% of 2013-14 applicants were accepted into medical school. So as the AMCAS application opens for submissions in less than a week (June 3), some of the more persistent applicants are preparing to go through the process for a second—even a third—time. While having to reapply can surely be frustrating, consider this an opportunity to learn from your missteps and show your commitment to medicine. For those looking to reapply, improving your chances of matriculating may require you to simply reflect and react .  REFLECT If you applied to medical school and were not admitted, some personal time for self-assessment is a ...

The AMCAS application for the cycle is now open and accepts official submissions in June. While we're sure a good number of applicants may have finished their personal statements already, there may still be a few with some finalizing to do. Some applicants may have written a few drafts yet are looking for ways to polish their statements. The personal statement, after all, is one of the most important portions of an applicant's review. As MSU College of Human Medicine (CHM) admissions advisor, Brian Ulrich, points out , "The personal statement is where applicants can demonstrate the personal characteristics and attributes that are required in medical school. Many applicants will have great MCAT scores and a solid GPA. The statement helps set people apart." We hope that by now you've written a draft or two. So if you're looking to tighten it up or round it out, here are some things to consider to ensure you'll have a solid personal statement. **...

It is a fact, unfortunately, that over half of the nation's medical school applicants do not get accepted, meaning most students fail to matriculate into any of their medical school choices when they first apply. More specifically, American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) statistics show that just under 42% of applicants in 2013 matriculated into medical school. The reality is there's a ton of great applicants for which schools simply don't have open seats. At MSU in particular, we receive thousands of applications annually from students who have put in a great deal of time and effort to prepare their medical school applications. We understand how one can feel taxed after not receiving an acceptance. If the MSU College of Human Medicine (CHM) was one of those choices that you were unsuccessful with and you have not been admitted to any of your additional choices, there are steps you can take to become a more com...