Hpa Applicanthandbook 2015-16

Transcript

  Applicant Handbook: 2015-206 Guide for Applying to Medical (MD, DO and MD/PhD), Dental, Optometry, Podiatry PA, Pharmacy, PT/OT & Nursing Schools I. The First Step One of the first questions students usually ask is "When do I start applying to my health care graduate program?" Although the actual application process begins when you take the admissions tests (MCAT, DAT, OAT, PCAT, GRE) in Fall/Spring of your junior year, you really should begin preparing for professional school as a freshman. The selection of an undergraduate major is often the first decision a student must make. Professional schools are not primarily concerned with what you choose to major in, but they are concerned with how well you do in your chosen major. Thus, you should select a major that you enjoy and would enhance your chances of obtaining a good academic record. Therefore, should you not be accepted into your chosen professional program, you will still have a degree in a subject area that interests you. A science major is not a prerequisite for health care graduate programs, but you must make sure that you are able to complete any required pre-requisites preferably before you apply. Students should not major in a science simply because they believe this will increase their chances for admission. Conversely, obtaining a degree in a sciencebased major is not detrimental to your application process. Again, you should select the degree program that best meets your interests. Regardless of your selected major, you will be required to take certain pre-requisite science courses for admission to most programs and to prepare you for the admissions tests. These include but are not limited to biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. You may also wish to consider adding a minor(s) in an area that interests you or in an alternate discipline. Many students believe that a double major provides a significant benefit – but remember – schools screen on GPA not major and you may even be better to add minors with other portfolio components (like service and clinical) over a double major. Adding a double major should be based on your interest – not on “application fluffing”. Professional schools seek well-rounded and gifted students who have proven themselves inside and outside of the classroom. Don't wait until the end of junior year, when you are preparing to apply, to demonstrate your abilities. Keep your career goals in mind and start preparing from your freshman year. Nationally, the mean undergraduate grade point average of students accepted to dental, medical and PA school has been 3.5 - 3.6. For optometry and pharmacy school, the average has been 3.2 - 3.5. However, students with lower grades are admitted to professional schools since admissions committees take other factors into consideration in addition to grades. A strong GPA and admission test score, however, will give you an excellent start in the application process. What we tell students is that your GPA and admission test score will be what get you through the “screening” process for the graduate programs you seek. You will then be part of a large pool of other students with strong GPAs and admission test scores, so it is critical that you demonstrate distinct and unique academic, service, clinical and social attributes. It is also important to have an understanding of the program you wish to pursue, and a commitment to service, ethical integrity, and a diversity of interests which represent you as a well rounded candidate. A. Minimum Science Course Requirements 1. Medicine and Dentistry Generally, the minimum science course requirements for medical and dental schools (and the equivalent courses at North Carolina State University) are: • • • • • • 8 hours of biology or zoology (with labs) - BIO181 and BIO183 (or former ZO 150 and ZO 160). [Note: UNC School of Dentistry requires a vertebrate zoology (BIO 250) or human anatomy course (BIO 212 or BIO 421/426) (or former BIO 301/302) and Biochem – BCH 351/451] 8 hours of inorganic chemistry (with labs) - CH 101 and CH 102 (Chemistry-A Molecular Science and lab) and CH 201 and CH 202 (Chemistry-A Quantitative Science and lab). 8 hours of organic chemistry (with labs) - CH 221/222 and CH 223/224. 8 hours of physics (with labs) - PY 211 and PY 212 or PY 205 and PY 208. Math/Calculus – One semester to one year of mathematics. Some schools still specifically require calculus, while others have very general math requirements (MA 131/231 or 141/241) New MCAT for 2015 also will expect coursework in BCH (351 or 451 are   • • okay) along with psychology/sociology course work exposure such as PSY 200 and above) – Genetics is also strongly recommended BE SURE TO CHECK the admissions requirements and recommendations for EACH school to which you plan to apply. The courses listed above satisfy the minimum science requirements of MOST professional schools. Specific school requirements can be confirmed in the directories of the American Association of Medical Schools and the American Association of Dental Schools. Many students ask if there are additional courses beyond those required which might be helpful in preparing for the admissions tests and professional school. The following courses are suggested but are NOT required, and many applicants do not have an opportunity to take these courses: o Microbiology (MB 351), Human Anatomy and Physiology (BIO 212), and Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology (BIO 421/ and possibly the lab - 426) as well as Genetics (GN 311) are recommended/encouraged. o A writing course and courses in the humanities and social sciences to help you develop your verbal reasoning and reading skills would be helpful in preparing you for the Medical College Admissions Test. 2. Optometry Individual optometry schools have some very specific requirements. Pay close attention to these requirements to ensure taking the required or recommended courses for specific optometry schools. 3. Pharmacy, PA, PT/OT schools 1.) Pharmacy – please check each school for specific requirements • 1 year Biology/Zoology (with labs) - BIO 181/BIO 183 or BIO/ZO 150 /BIO/ZO160 (no longer offered) • 1 year General Chemistry (with labs) - CH 101/102 and CH 201/202 • 1 year Organic Chemistry (with labs) - CH 221/222 and CH 223/224 Many schools also require up to: • 1 year Physics (with labs) - PY 211/PY 212 (or PY 205 and PY 208) • At least one semester Mathematics to include Calculus (one year required by some schools) MA 121(single semester) or 131/231 or 141/241 (1 year) • 1 Semester Microbiology (MB 351/MB 411)   • Human Anatomy – BIO/ZO 212 or BIO 301/302 (no longer offered) or BIO/ZO 421/426 Additional Recommendations: Speech/Communication, Scientific Writing NC Program Info There are four Pharm.D. programs in North Carolina. All require four years to complete. The programs prepare students for a career in community and hospital pharmacy, teaching or professional careers in industry and government. • • • • Campbell University UNC Chapel Hill Wingate University High Point University Applications to programs are submitted online through PharmCAS. A minimum of 6264 credit hours must be completed prior to entry. Applicants should have finished math, statistics, biology and chemistry courses by the end of spring semester, sophomore year if applying early. In some cases, the programs will allow a student to be lacking one or two of the humanities/social science courses before entry. These decisions are made on an individual basis. We encourage students to consider acquiring their UG degree before applying to increase competitiveness and maturity. Since some of these programs change their prerequisite course requirements, application dates, etc. without notifying us, all students interested in applying are strongly urged to contact the programs of interest to be sure all of the requirements for admission are being met. 2.) Physician Assistant School Since some of these programs change their prerequisite course requirements, application dates, etc. without notifying us, all students interested in applying are strongly urged to contact the programs of interest to be sure all of the requirements for admission are being met. There are Eight Physician Assistant Programs in North Carolina; all are Masters level. • • • • • Wake Forest University Duke University East Carolina University Methodist University Wingate University   • • Elon University High Point University All of the programs require on-going, hands-on health care experience with direct patient contact – e.g., EMT or paramedic training, health educator, RN, patient care attendant or nurse’s aide, clinic assistant, or other health care experience – technologist, therapist, clinical research assistant and many prefer that this be paid rather than volunteer experience. Since some of these programs change their prerequisite course requirements, application dates, etc. without notifying us, all students interested in applying are strongly urged to contact programs of interest to be sure all of the requirements for admission are being met. 3.) PT/OT Physical Therapy (PT)/Occupational Therapy (OT) PHYSICAL THERAPY These programs are doctoral level (DPT) and require a minimum of three years to complete: • • • • • • • Campbell University East Carolina University Duke University Elon University UNC Chapel Hill Western Carolina University Winston-Salem State University To be a competitive candidate you should have thorough exposure to physical therapy as a profession. While volunteering at a local hospital is an excellent introduction to a career in physical therapy, it may not represent the diversity that actually exists in the profession. You are encouraged to explore other physical therapy clinics in nursing homes, county health departments, private practices and sports medicine clinics. Most programs require that you submit at least one reference letter from a physical therapist so be sure to get to know a therapist well enough to request a letter of reference. Since some of these programs change their prerequisite course requirements, application dates, etc., without prior notice, all students interested in applying are strongly urged to contact the program of interest to be sure all the requirements for   admissions are being met. OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY - Masters Level • • • • UNC Chapel Hill Lenior Rhyne East Carolina University Winston-Salem State University *Please check with individual schools for additional requirements - please check NCSU Course Equivalents page to see what NCSU courses transfer to each school for prerequisites. 4. Nursing School North Carolina has 14 programs that offer a bachelor of science in nursing. Since some of these programs change their prerequisite course requirements, application dates, and other information without notifying us, all students interested in applying are strongly urged to contact the program of interest to be sure all of the requirements for admission are being met. *Please check with individual schools for additional requirements – please check NCSU Course Equivalents page to see what NCSU courses transfer to each school for pre-reqs at Transfer Course Equivalents II. The Admissions Tests (MCAT, DAT, OAT, PCAT, GRE) Note - We are often asked if we recommend any of the private review courses available in our area to help students prepare for admissions tests. That is a decision that each student must make after considering the options. There are online, book-based, and CD review courses for applicants willing to set aside the review time. A. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) MCAT - Test takers will receive five scores from their MCAT exams: one for each of the four sections and one combined total score. Section Scores: Each of the four sections—Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems; Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills; Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems; and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior—will be scored from a low of 118 to a high of 132, with a midpoint of 125. Test takers will receive scores for each of the four sections.      Total Score: Scores for the four sections will be combined to create a total score. The total score will range from 472 to 528. The midpoint is 500. For example, if an examinee scores 125 on the Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section; 127 on the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills section; 128 on the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems section; and 129 on the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section, the total score will be 509. We also suggest that you purchase the MCAT Student Manual as a study guide (available at www.aamc.org/mcat). In addition to this guide, there are several other publications available that may help you review for the test. Our campus bookstore and local bookstores have a good selection of study manuals. There are also several preparatory courses which you can take. NCSU in conjunction with Princeton Review also currently offers a “pre-preparation series” to help students begin early review and preparation even from their freshman semester. This is a non-credit one hour seminar course that is divided into series of four semester offerings. Students do not have to take any or all parts of the series to register for a section directly online with Princeton Review. Over each 15 week semester series – the class will review one of the 5 topic areas on the MCAT – bio, organic and inorganic chemistry, physics and verbal reasoning (3 groups of 5 week reviews). Students do not have to have had the class to benefit from these reviews of fundamental science principles. This course is designed for students planning to take the MCAT, DAT, OAT and even the PCAT. https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/mcat/mcat2015/ B. Dental Admission Test (DAT) The Dental Admission Test is administered on the computer on almost any day of the year at a Sylvan Testing Center. You must submit the application form and fee to the Dental Admission Testing Program. After processing, Sylvan will receive notification of your eligibility for testing. You will receive instructions to arrange a day, time and place to take the test. (Note: if you decide to retest, you will have to wait 90 days from the previous testing date) There are four individual examinations contained in the DAT: Survey of the Natural Sciences - basic first year biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry will be covered. Questions require problem-solving skills rather than simple memorization of material. Quantitative Reasoning - 30 items of mathematical problems and 10 items of applied mathematics. There are no advanced mathematics or calculus problems. Knowledge of basic first-year college mathematics and algebra is presumed. Reading Comprehension - Three reading passages pertaining to dental, basic, or clinical science (subjects you have not covered as an undergraduate) are given. Each passage is followed by 16 or 17 questions which examine the ideas given in the passage. Perceptual Ability Test (PAT) - This examination consists of 90 two- dimensional and three-dimensional problems. Items covered include angle discrimination, form development, apertures, and paper folding. A composite score, called the Academic Average, is included in your test score; it is an average of the quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, biology, general and organic chemistry test scores. Although some review material is included with the DAT application packet, there are fewer DAT preparation manuals available than there are for the MCAT. Check at our campus bookstore or local bookstores, or online. C. Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Like the DAT, the OAT exam is also computerized and examinees are allowed to take the OAT an unlimited number of times but must wait at least 90 days between testing dates. Only scores from the four most recent attempts and the total number of attempts will be reported. Registration is online and testing is at one of the Thompson Prometric Centers. Raleigh has a testing center located at 3200 Spring Forest Road. Additional test centers can be found at https://www.prometric.com. The OAT consists of four tests. The first section, Survey of the Natural Sciences, covers biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry. The remaining sections cover Physics, Reading Comprehension, and Quantitative Reasoning. The application booklet to register for the OAT includes a section on test preparation materials which are very useful in preparing for the test. Check at local bookstores or online for review manuals. D. Pharmacy Admission Test (PCAT) The PCAT is an exam developed by PsychCorp, a brand of Pearson. The PCAT is a specialized test that helps identify qualified applicants to pharmacy colleges. It measures general academic ability and scientific knowledge necessary for the commencement of pharmaceutical education. The PCAT is constructed specifically for colleges of pharmacy. The PCAT consists of 240 multiple-choice items and two Writing topics. Candidates are   given four hours to complete the test.   Method of Scoring: The test contains seven subtests or sections. Two of these are based on writing whereas the other five contain 48 multiple-choice questions each. Of these 48 questions, 8 are experimental questions and do not count towards your score. The other 40 questions are granted marks. The multiple-choice questions are scored electronically whereas the written responses are scored by trained experts. Only one essay is scored as the other is an experimental test item. Scoring of Writing Section: For the essay response, the scale used varies from 0 to 5. The essay is judged for two important aspects, Conventions of Language and Problem Solving. Each of these is given a separate score by two examiners. In case their scores differ by one point, the average of the two scores is reported. The final scores reported for the essay are thus average scores and range from 0 to 5 with half point increments. If, however, they differ in their opinions by more than one point, then an additional scorer is called in for scoring the essay. The mean writing subtest scores of all test takers who appeared for the same PCAT exam as you are also reported. This is done for the purpose of making comparisons, as percentile ranks for the Writing subtest are not reported. The writing score points are explained to assist schools in understanding the level of competence in words, rather than figures. A score of 5 represents ‘superior’ capability and 4 stands for an ‘efficient’ level. A score of 3 represents ‘adequate’ performance, whereas a score of 2 represents ‘limited’ and 1 signifies ‘weak’ performance. A score of zero signifies an ‘invalid’ attempt. A score below 3 shall not be helpful to you in any way. The detailed explanation of each of these grades is given in the PCAT Candidate Information Booklet. Score Report Details You receive a personal copy of the score report. Besides, official transcripts are sent to colleges that you select at the time of registration. These score reports are dispatched within six weeks of testing through regular mail. Scores cannot be inquired over the telephone or through fax. Your score report contains the following scores for the multiple choice subtests. There is no passing or failing score in PCAT. • • Scaled Scores: These are reported for each multiple-choice subtest. These scores range from 200 to 600. The scaled score for a test is calculated on the basis of the number of correct responses. No mark is taken away for incorrect responses and all testing items hold the same value. The scaled scores are calculated to equalize the differences that exist among different test administrations. These make it possible to compare the score of one subtest in two score reports. However, you cannot compare two scaled scores across different subtests. Percentile Ranks: These are reported for each multiple-choice subtest, based on the scaled scores. The percentile ranks are calculated in comparison with a • • • selected norm group. This score represents the number of examinees in the norm group who scored lesser than the candidate. Composite Score: This is the average score of the multiple-choice subtests. The average is calculated without giving any weights to the scaled scores of the different subtests. Percentile Composite Rank: This is the percentile rank corresponding to the Composite Score. It gives a fair idea of where the student stands in comparison with the other test takers in the complete multiple choice portion of PCAT. Scores of Previous Performances: The scores earned in PCAT in the previous five years are reported in the score report. If you select the No Score Option at the time of testing, then your score for the performance is not reported to anyone. This score does not appear in the score reports of any consequent attempt.   Competitive Scoring • Most pharmacy schools’ minimum required PCAT score is at least 50th percentile. The score of entering students range between 50th – 99th percentile. • The average score of entering classes ranges between 70th – 80th percentile. • The sections of PCAT are: verbal ability, quantitative ability, reading comprehension, knowledge of basic principles and concepts of biology, general and elementary organic chemistry. E. GRE ETS info on new GRE - http://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/about III. What else are the schools looking for? In addition to grades and admissions tests scores, there are other factors to be considered to be a successful applicant to professional schools. Anyone who is planning a career in a healthcare field must demonstrate interest in people and be able to relate to others effectively. You can demonstrate that you possess these characteristics by being involved in extracurricular and service oriented activities both at school and in the community. Involvement in such activities will highlight such personal traits as leadership, initiative, perseverance and breadth of interests. In other words, don't just try to tell the schools what a well-rounded person you are; let your actions show them. Consider local, state, national and international service opportunities. Create unique and memorable experiences rather than marching through a “checklist” of activities – it is not the number of activities but rather the quality and commitment to these and the experiences gained that are important.    Finally, you must demonstrate your motivation for your chosen health career. Not only should you have a general understanding of a career in medicine, dentistry, or optometry, but you should also have actual experience in a healthcare setting. You can gain this experience by working or volunteering at a hospital, nursing home, public health department or other health care facility. There are numerous opportunities for clinical mission work both locally and abroad. By obtaining this experience, when your interviewer asks: "How do you know you want to be a doctor (or dentist or optometrist)?" you have the answer, not just for the interviewer, but more importantly, for yourself. Once again, it is not simply logging a specific number of hours but rather the experiences themselves that make a difference. IV. When should you apply? There are many factors to consider regarding the timing of preparing your application, but “early” is the key word. A. Admissions Test Timelines The actual application process begins with taking the Admissions Tests, preferably in fall or by spring of your junior year or the year prior to when you hope to matriculate. Also consider this information when thinking about your timeline: • • • • • Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) – computer testing 22 times a year Dental Admissions Test (DAT) - computer testing on almost any day of the year Optometry Admissions (OAT) – computer testing on almost any day of the year Pharmacy Admissions Test (PCAT) – computer testing typically offered multiple dates 3 months each year – Jan, July and September GRE – computerized testing almost any day of the year It is to your advantage to take the admissions test as soon as possible after completing the minimum science course requirements. Fall or Spring testing gets your scores to the professional schools early in the admissions cycle and places you a step ahead of students testing in the late Summer of Fall of their application year. Moreover, if you are not satisfied with your scores, you will have the opportunity to test again in the late Summer/Fall and improve them. Most professional schools have later application deadlines, but many schools screen students as soon as the applications are received. As an early applicant you could reach the interview stage before some students even complete the initial application.   B. Early Decision Program Some medical schools participate in the Early Decision Program (EDP) in which an applicant applies to only one school. Don't confuse being an "Early Decision" (ED) candidate with just applying early. An ED applicant may apply to only one school, and the application must be made between June 1 and August 1. The school must notify you of its decision no later than October 1. You cannot apply to any other medical school until you have been informed of that school's decision. If you are offered admission, you must accept the offer. For this reason, you should not apply ED to a school unless you are sure that is where you want to go. If you are not accepted by the one school, you may apply to other schools after being informed. There are advantages and disadvantages in being an Early Decision applicant. On the positive side, you'll know by early fall whether you have been admitted. You'll also save a lot of time and money by applying to only one school. The disadvantage to applying early decision is that if you are not accepted, you'll have to submit your application to other schools late in the application period. To be a competitive Early Decision candidate, we recommend that you have the following qualifications: • • • • • An overall GPA of at least 3.8 MCAT scores of at least 10 on all categories A good blend of unique extracurricular activities Good experience in a health care area with distinct experiences Excellent letters of evaluation C. Early Assurance Program Some medical schools offer Early Assurance Program(s). None of the North Carolina medical schools offer this program any longer. Well-qualified students, upon completion of their sophomore year, may apply for acceptance to the class entering two years later. Eligibility requires a minimum GPA of 3.5 each semester for the science, non-science and overall GPAs and completion of half of the required prerequisites. The MCAT will not be required. A student applies early the summer before their junior year through the AMCAS process asking consideration for the Early Assurance Program. The applicant must agree to complete required courses, to continue academic excellence, to demonstrate high ethical conduct, and not to apply to any other medical school. Non-acceptance by the Early Assurance Program does not influence future applications. V. Where should you apply? Most NC State premedical students apply to 7-15 medical schools. Since most of our premedical students are residents of North Carolina, their best chances of acceptance are at the two state supported medical schools: the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University in Greenville. Quite a few of our students also gain admission to the two private medical schools in North Carolina: Duke University Medical School and Wake Forest University School of Medicine. If you are a student at NC State but are a resident of another state, your best chance of being admitted is to a state-supported professional school in your home state. This is not to say that you shouldn't apply to the state-supported professional schools in North Carolina, but you should be aware that less students from out of state are accepted into those programs. You can, of course, apply to private professional schools in any state. In addition, many pre-medical students apply to multiple osteopathic medical schools and/or podiatry schools as well. If you want to know more about the history of osteopathic medicine and its approach to health care, you should refer to the following websites: • • • www.aacom.org www.aoa-net.org www.osteopathic.net If you wish to learn more about the field of podiatry, visit www.apma.org. Most NC State pre-dental students apply to 5 or 12 dental schools. North Carolina has two dental programs now – UNC School of Dentistry and East Carolina School of Dentistry. To help you select where to apply, you should refer to the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) directory or the Admissions Requirements of U.S. and Canadian Dental Schools. There are available for review at www.aamc.org (medical) or www.adea.org (dental). These books contain statistics on the number of applicants and the number of out-of-state and in-state students interviewed and admitted each year. Most of our pre-medical students apply to the four North Carolina schools (Duke and Wake Forest are private, so state residency isn't a factor) and then select a few additional schools based on information obtained from the admissions requirements   book. Pre-dental students make similar choices.   Our students usually apply to 3 – 7 optometry programs; note that the State of North Carolina does not have an optometry school. North Carolina currently has 4 pharmacy and 8 Physician Assistant schools – most students apply to 3 – 8 programs including the NC schools. VI. How do you apply? The American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), the American Association of Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS), the Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS), the Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS), and the Central Application Service for Physician Assistant schools (CASPA) are centralized processing services used by most medical and dental schools and all optometry schools, respectively, for the initial application. Over 141 of the US and 17 of the Canadian allopathic medical schools belong to AMCAS and 30 DO programs using AACOMAS. There are 65 accredited (and applying for accreditation) dental schools in the US and 10 dental schools in Canada. Of these, only 9 of the Canadian schools and Puerto Rico are the only ones that do not use AADSAS. If a school is a member of an application service, you must apply to that school through the application service. If a school is not a member of the service, you must write to that school and request an application. Whether a school belongs to the services can be determined at their websites www.aamc.org (medical), www.adea.org (dental), www.opted.org (optometry), https://caspa.liaisoncas.com (physician assistant), and http://www.pharmcas.org (pharmacy). The osteopathic medical schools also have an application service - American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS). Since all osteopathic schools use this service, this is the only way to apply to these schools. Podiatry schools have recently opened online application services at www.eaacpmas.org. Primary applications to most professional schools are submitted electronically at the following websites. Check these sites to see when the application period opens. • For MD and MD/PhD programs - AMCAS: www.aamc.org • • • • • • • • For DO programs - AACOMAS: www.aacom.org For Podiatry programs - AACPMAS: www.e-aacpmas.org For Dental programs - AADSAS: www.adea.org For Optometry programs - OptomCAS: www.opted.org For Physician Assistant Programs - CASPA: https://portal.caspaonline.org For Pharmacy Programs - PharmCAS: http://www.pharmcas.org For Physical Therapy Programs - PTCAS: http://www.ptcas.org For Occupational Therapy - OTCAS: http://www.aota.org   A. Application Procedures AMCAS, AADSAS, AACOMAS, AACPMAS, OptomCAS, CASPA, PTCAS, OTCAS and Pharmcas application packets request general biographic information including information on your extracurricular and community activities. You will list your courses and grades (in chronological order) from every college or university you have attended. In addition, an official transcript from all your colleges and universities must be sent directly from the Registrar's office to the application service, not from you. One very important part of the application is the "Personal Comments" section. This is a blank page in the application that will give you an opportunity to introduce yourself to the schools to which you are applying. The big question is - "What should I say?" Although the application services provide a centralized application process, each member college stipulates its own deadlines. There is a wide variance in these, so check them carefully. The deadlines are all very clearly stated in the application packet. We advise you again to apply early (meaning in June if possible – don’t wait on your scores to submit) and don't wait for the deadlines! Also – keep a hard copy for your records. After the services receive your application, they will verify your grades and forward them to the schools you have designated. Please send your transcripts early as verification procedures can take 6 weeks or more. You may submit your transcripts as soon as the application period opens (typically after spring grades are posted); you do not have to wait until you submit your actual application to send your transcripts. If the individual schools are interested in you as an applicant, they will contact you with a supplemental application. The supplemental application will require an additional fee and more forms to complete. Many schools will also either specifically request another narrative statement or give you the option of writing one. If it is an option, we recommend that you write the essay! Sometimes you will be given a specific subject to address, other times you will not. Subjects discussed in your original essay should not be repeated. Also, remember that receiving a secondary does not always mean that a school expects to interview you – some schools send secondaries to all applicants, others to those they are considering, and others only to those they plan to interview.    Another word of caution: RETURN THE SUPPLEMENTAL APPLICATION IMMEDIATELY - within two weeks if at all possible. Some schools will give you a specific deadline to which you must adhere. If there is no deadline, however, be sure to return the supplemental application within two weeks. Your promptness will emphasize how interested you are in that school. Maintain a record of your secondary application with dates of postmark and due dates. Like your original application materials, keep a hard copy for your own records. VII. Personal Statement Essay As mentioned previously, your personal statement is one of the most important sections of your application (many schools state that your personal statement and actual interview performance can count as much as 50 – 60% of your admissions score). This is your chance to describe your motivation and your special strengths, so spend a good deal of time thinking about and writing this statement. Before you write your statement, outline the key thoughts you want to include. Be selective and avoid the temptation to include too many points. The essay is not something you can do in one draft. Write, re-write, and re-write! Check and double-check the spelling and grammar. If you are unsure about your skills in these areas, have someone skilled in this area proofread it for you. Also, have someone review (and re-review) your statement until you and the reviewer are satisfied that the admissions committee will be reading the story you want to tell them. While the essay should be your own personal statement, a few general suggestions should be considered. Avoid simple declarative sentences. For example, instead of listing clubs and organizations (which are already listed in your application), interweave them into the story about yourself; i.e., who you are, your motivation, your interests, your experiences, and your history. You may wish to include one or two of the most meaningful experiences you have had. Discuss these subjects in depth, rather than write about too many things. It is also helpful to describe any opportunities you may have had to do research, independent study projects, or some special class experiences or projects. In essence, your essay should clearly establish your qualifications and motivation for a career in medicine, and also allow the reader to evaluate your personal attributes, such as leadership, scientific interest, altruism, sense of service, and compassion. If there are any discrepancies or irregularities in your academic record you may wish to discuss them. Have you had a bad semester? Was it because of illness, family problems, or financial problems? Have you had to work while attending school? Do not dwell on any of these problems (or make excuses for a lackluster performance), but they should be mentioned to explain any aspect of your application that may be viewed negatively by the admissions committee. Because your interviewer may use your personal statement as a basis for your interview, be sure that you have included topics that you feel comfortable discussing. In general, we encourage students to begin with an opening paragraph that creates a “catch” much like the opening to a novel – something that engages the reviewer to want to learn more about this person. Use the next 3 – 4 paragraphs to highlight 2 – 4 key components about yourself. If possible these should highlight unique attributes about yourself and your experiences. Try to relate 1 – 2 personal “stories or experiences” to make these experiences more memorable.   Allow your personality to come through so that the reader can gain an understanding of the person and their passion through this essay. Conclude your essay with strength: you may decide to reflect back to your opening statement or maybe provide a statement on your feelings, or desires. Avoid statements like “why I want to be a doctor” or “why I know medical school is right for me” – they know you want to be a doctor. Avoid using the words “doctor” “medical school,” etc. repeatedly – remember, they are reading thousands of these same words. Make this a unique look into the unique “you.” Create memorable and distinct scenarios that will allow the reader a glimpse into your commitment and desire. Finally, just a few technical pointers: Your personal statement should be about 1 – 1.25 page long single-spaced, double-spaced between paragraphs. Never use any print that is small and difficult to read (no smaller than 10 pt font). Your application highlights your “hard skills” (academics, awards, activities); your personal essay can highlight these but also shed insight into your “soft skills.” Some key features to think about and depict in your essay are the following: your writing and communication skills, motivation, empathy, maturity, compassion, etc. Once again, get personal, depict a story, give details, and provide the reader with a sense of your personality and values. VIII. Letters of Recommendation (LORs) The professional schools will ask for several letters of recommendation as part of your application. Many professional programs rely heavily on these university recommendations as part of their initial screening process. The professional schools prefer an evaluation from the life science area (e.g., biology, zoology, genetics, microbiology, biochemistry), a physical science evaluation (chemistry, physics, biochemistry, or math) and a humanities or social science evaluation. Other letters may come from any academic area or from someone you shadowed, an employer, supervisor, advisor, mentor or person who has worked with you in some type of service area. If you have performed research, you may wish to ask your supervisor for a letter. If you spent a summer working in a health care setting or research laboratory it would certainly be to your advantage to get an evaluation from someone in that area. You may obtain letters of evaluation from faculty at other universities that you have attended, but certainly consider NC State Faculty. Please note that the professional schools prefer evaluations from faculty rather than graduate teaching assistants. Also, note that some of your letters should come from junior/senior level courses rather than just freshman level. Evaluations from personal friends, ministers, or family physicians who know you only as a patient are strongly discouraged.    Note: Many osteopathic medical schools require a letter of evaluation from an osteopathic physician. Most optometry schools require a letter of evaluation from an optometrist and essentially all dental schools expect one if not two letters from dentists you have worked or shadowed with. Some tips: • Schedule a time to meet with your recommenders and discuss your interests and plans. • Supply them with your personal statement, a resume, and any other document that reflects your experience, strengths, community service, and interests. • Offer your recommenders information on AAMC’s website regarding tips for writing letters of recommendation/evaluation. IX. Interviews If the professional schools feel that your initial qualifications make you a good candidate for their programs they will invite you for a personal interview. This will give them an opportunity to meet you personally and assess your motivation and academic performance and determine how well suited you are for professional school and a health career. Be prepared to answer these questions completely and intelligently: “Tell me about yourself” and “Why do you want to be a doctor (or dentist or optometrist?).” It is also a good opportunity for you to ask questions about their particular program. We suggest that you read the school catalog and/or website before you go for an interview so you will have some knowledge of the curriculum, facilities, and special programs. Be able to tell why you are interested in their particular program. We strongly suggest that you keep abreast of any new medical advances, policies, or health care issues. Be sure to read current articles related to anything in this area. Dress as you would for a job interview. Be neat and conservative. This means a suit jacket and tie for men and a dress or suit for women. You may choose to carry a nice folder with for your interview. You don’t want to be carrying around loose sheets of paper as you proceed through the day. Have clean polished shoes and consider having your hair cut/trimmed at least 3 -7 days prior to the interview. With respect to jewelry, be thoughtful and conservative. While you are waiting for your interview – be very aware of your conduct and comments – do not discuss with others your interviewers, prior interviews, etc. Be conversational and polite – you are being watched. When called into your interview – take the initiative – extend your hand first and greet your interviewer by introducing yourself. Allow them to return the greeting and then try to add an “ice breaker” to establish a dialogue with your interviewer. The interview is critical because it represents your ability to establish a conversation and trust with your interviewer – much like you will do in your practice. Make an effort during your interview to talk “to” not “at” your interviewer. Remember – maintain eye contact.   Be aware of speech tendencies such as the use of words like “you know,” “like,” and “um.” During your interview be sure to ask some questions of your own. Don't be afraid to say that you don't know the answer to some questions, and don't try to bluff your way through something that you know nothing about. Be honest. Ask for clarification if you are unsure about the question. You should have thought of prior to your interview what you think are your 3-5 top selling points from your application. At least one must be clinical and one must be service/leadership. The others can include outside interests, research, etc. The goal should be to answer the question asked in 10 – 30 seconds and then use this first step to lead to one of those 3-5 selling points you wish for them to remember. The second step after the 10-30 second primary question answer is to transition to a 15-20 second intro of your selling point area. For instance – if it is clinical – you would highlight (give a sound bite) of your experiences like – private, hospital, international and indigent care experience and then the third step will focus on one area. This way you highlight your breadth of experience and then focus on a topic area. This focus area will be one of those selling points about you. We encourage you to have a story for 1 or 2 of these points as your interviewer will more likely remember a strength with a story attached. When you intro your point – provide a brief background such as “during the summer of my junior year I traveled to Spain with International Service learning where I spent 4 weeks learning about international health care.” – then explain what you got out of this experience. Please avoid negative comments in your answers like “unlike other students I….” – your activities should demonstrate this – not your words. You will want to try to use these “selling points” to demonstrate that you get the focus – such that you get what health care is about, what research is about, what service is about. Be sure to thank the interviewer at the end of the interview and follow-up promptly with a short "thank you" note to each interviewer. You should thank them for their time, reference one thing you discussed in your interview, and the close with something such as you look forward to speaking with them. These should be sent within 5 days at the most. X. Financial Aid    Most students receive some kind of financial aid to help with the cost of their medical education. Because of academic demands, most professional schools discourage employment of any kind, so you will probably be seeking some sort of aid. Administration of financial aid is usually done by the professional schools. On the day of your interview you will have a session with a financial aid officer who will discuss grants, scholarships, and loans available to students attending their particular program. Information on financial aid may also be found through the Medical School Admission Requirements, Admissions Requirements of U.S. and Canadian Dental Schools, and AAMC. The U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force offer full scholarships for medical, dental, and optometry training in exchange for a service obligation after you have obtained your degree or completed your residency. The State of North Carolina through the North Carolina Health, Science, and Mathematics Student Loan Program, also offers money to health professional students planning a health career in exchange for service after they have obtained the degree. XI. Denial Even though NC State students have an excellent acceptance rate to professional schools, there will be students who will not be accepted. It is always a good idea to reapply if you are willing to do what is necessary to strengthen your application. Admissions committees look favorably upon students who are persistent and determined to attend professional school if the student has made every effort to strengthen his or her credentials before reapplying. While you are proceeding through with your initial application process, and perhaps even before you hear if you are accepted or not, be prepared to begin the process again if you decide to reapply the following year. For instance, if you are waitlisted, be prepared to reapply with the primary application service in June. Then, if you are not accepted through the waitlist by August, you are not behind for reapplication the following year. If you are unsure about what may have been a weak area in your application, make an appointment to visit with the Deans of Admission at one or two of the schools to which you applied. It is advisable to schedule these appointments in late May or June. Ask the Deans of Admission what you need to do to strengthen your application. If your GPA was a little below average, it may be suggested that you take some advanced level courses to demonstrate your academic abilities. If your admissions test scores were low, you will have to work to improve them. If the Admissions Committees were unsure about your motivation for a health career you can improve your chances by getting more clinical experience. It may be necessary to wait a year before reapplying to give yourself time to improve these areas and reapply as a stronger candidate. Your perseverance may be rewarded with an acceptance letter.