medical school secondary essay editing

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Medical School Secondary Essays Editing

Be memorable. claim an interview spot. get accepted., unbiased essay editing.

Our diverse team of 60+ editors provide unbiased and honest reviews. Each editor brings something different to the table that will enhance your essays. 

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Our rigorous application/screening process leaves us with only the finest core editing team of physicians and medical students. Reviewing countless essays has allowed us to identify the patterns that make certain students more memorable and competitive.

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We were pre-meds once too, so we set out to make our services something you can actually afford! We found it crazy that most other review services charge $350 for 1 school’s medical school secondary application essay.

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Secondary Essay Review Pricing

Every school selects secondary prompts with a distinct purpose in mind; let us guide you in crafting effective responses..

• Up to 3 Reviews Each
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• Advice from Admissions Committee Members
• Physician & Med Student Editors
• 48-72 Hour Turnaround*
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• Complete Analysis of content/voice/tone
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• Advice from Admissions Committee Members​

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Don’t see the package you’d like want to create a custom bundle call, text, or email us with what you're looking for and we’ll create a custom package for you.

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Meet Some of Your Editors

Ansel N., MD,PhD

The ohio state university college of medicine.

Alexa S., MD

University of Cincinnati College of Medicine

Harvard Medical School

Yale School of Medicine

George Washington School of Medicine

DUKE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

NYU Grossman School of Medicine

Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons

University of California San Francisco School of Medicine

Most frequent questions and answers about our services.

Our carefully-selected editing team is currently made up of physicians and medical students who have completed our rigorous screening, application, and training process.  Some of our editors have either sat on admissions committees or have contributed in some capacity to admissions at their school.  It’s critical for your essays to be viewed from multiple different perspectives, so we make it a priority to have a very diverse team of editors.

This number is based off of the number of applicants who got back to us saying whether or not they were accepted into at least one medical school.

In order to be an editor for Motivate MD, the person needs to check off two boxes. 1. They were accepted and currently attend or graduated from medical school. 2. They have an expertise for English writing.  Both a medical student and physician can check off those boxes. We strongly believe that just because someone is a physician does not mean they are qualified to review essays.

That being said, we do have a few physicians a part of our team who are extremely talented. We primarily like to have medical students be editors for one simple reason: They are closer to the medical school application process.

This can vary depending on the time of the year (there is a huge influx of essays from late May through August), but we always have a team goal to get reviews back to people within 48 hours. We have a guarantee of a 2-3 day turnaround. We strive for timely delivery, however, quality and effectiveness are our main priorities.

After you purchase a review package, you will get an email with what the next steps are. All drafts and reviews are sent via email.

You will receive a confirmation email for your purchase (check your trash/spam folders, if you don’t see it after a day) that outlines the immediate next steps in our review process. 

The short answer is no.  Although we started by reviewing only medical school application essays, we have been able to cater our editing secrets to make any essay memorable. 

We have helped those applying to medical residencies, PA school, dental school, nursing school, and grad/law school create very effective and unique essays.  Just give us any information you can during the checkout process to help us optimize our reviews to fit your specific situation!

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Ansel N., MD/PhD

Radiation Oncology Resident Former Medical School: Ohio State

My name is Ansel Nalin. I am a current Radiation Oncology resident at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. I graduated from the Ohio State University College of Medicine MD/PhD program.

While in medical school, I tutored first- and second-year medical students, helping them review lecture material and prepare for block exams. I taught study strategies to first-year students adjusting to the medical school curriculum. I worked individually with students during board exam preparation. I also led a review course for MD/PhD students prior to taking Step 1. In addition to my role as a tutor, I was also selected by the Ohio State College of Medicine Academic Office staff to serve in a leadership role for two years. In this role I led the team of 40 students on the peer tutoring team. I met weekly with College of Medicine staff to plan academic programs benefitting first- and second-year medical students. Together we organized and managed academic resources for medical students including our peer tutoring programs, group review sessions, and student-led review lectures. I coordinated the tutoring assignments for medical students involved in the program; over 100 students utilized the programs. We oversaw the creation of new student-led anatomy review sessions that were incorporated into the medical school academic program.

While enrolled in the MD/PhD program, I completed my PhD in cancer immunology studying natural killer cell development. I also collaborated on translational research projects seeking to identify new cell-based therapies for cancer. I published multiple papers in high impact journals and had the opportunity to present my work at both local and international conferences. I continue to pursue research that develops immune-based therapies for cancer and plan to pursue a career as a physician-scientist.

I joined the team at Motivate MD to help students achieve their goals in medicine. I have benefitted from the support of many outstanding mentors, and I strive to have a similarly positive impact in helping students succeed. My experiences as a tutor and teaching assistant, in both undergraduate and medical school, have helped me develop excellent skills in communication and mentoring. In addition to my teaching and leadership experience, I have developed specific skills to help students with the application and interview process for medical school and residency programs.

Not only am I familiar with what makes a strong application, I am prepared to help students highlight their strengths in their essays and interviews. I have extensive writing and speaking experience from my graduate studies. I have coached other students in communicating effectively. From my own experience in interviewing for medical school and residency, I can help students gain confidence in their communication skills and clearly express their motivations and goals. As a member of the Motivate MD team, I am passionate about helping students work toward their goal of a successful career in medicine.

I am an OBGYN resident and graduate of the University of Cincinnati. Throughout medical school, I engaged in research at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and UCCOM’s OBGYN department. I have a strong background in mentorship. In medical school, I was a part of an organization that would mentor local Cincinnati youths. I was also involved in mentoring medical students in the years below through her medical scholar’s program. I also have a lot of experience editing medical school essays and mentoring my scribes when I was a chief scribe during my gap years. I took two years off prior to applying for medical school. During this time, I completed research at WashU with a neuroimaging lab as a clinical research coordinator and scribed in an emergency department. The medical application process was daunting for me. I went through the process of taking the MCAT multiple times and struggled to figure out where I would be a competitive applicant. I chose to work for Motivate MD to assist students with this intimidating process and help in areas where I felt I was lacking guidance prior to medical school! I am very excited to get the opportunity to work with you!

Jisoo is a medical student at Harvard Medical School. She has a background in neurobiology wet-lab research, and has a strong interest in mentorship, especially of underserved populations. Everyone has a unique journey to medical school, and Jisoo is committed to helping applicants present their own unique journeys in a meaningful and comprehensive manner. She has lots of experience working with individuals that have diverse pathways to medical school and closely collaborates with applicants from the beginning to the end of their application process, providing individualized support for each applicant.

Hi! My name is Rhys (pronounced like “Reese’s Pieces”) and I am a medical student at Yale School of Medicine.

I have upwards of 9 years experience mentoring peers, most recently aiding students through the premedical path at my undergrad. I also have worked as an executive function/planning tutor for Los Angeles area high school and college students. Earlier in college, I worked as a research aide/teaching assistant helping students leverage “writing-to-learn” in order to improve their understanding of complex concepts.

After graduating  Summa Cum Laude  with a Bachelors of Science in Biomedical Engineering and Health Policy from the University of Southern California in 2021, I took a gap year primarily to scribe at a pediatric clinic to boost my clinical experience hours and to continue to work on a philanthropic start-up I co-founded while at USC.

At USC, I had multiple research experiences ranging from biomedical device research in a hybrid wet lab to policy analysis. I also was heavily involved in pro-bono consulting for non-profits and social enterprises.

I have personal experience approaching the common “Why Medicine?” question from a non-traditional angle (engineering major/activities and low clinical hours compared to non-clinical), tying in a non-standard major “X factor” extracurricular into the overall theme of an application, and expressing interest in dual degrees/interdisciplinary medical careers (policy, public health etc).

I look forward to helping you plan for and execute your unique path to medical school!

George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Hi Everyone! My name is Anthu Gnanakumar and I am a medical student at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences. I majored in neuroscience and minored in English at the University of Virginia prior to taking a gap year and attending medical school. During my gap year, I worked as a medical assistant (MA) at endocrinology and pediatric primary care practices. I really value the hands-on experience I got through being an MA and would highly recommend taking a gap year if you are at all considering it!

I remember being daunted by the significant uptick in medical school applications during the pandemic and can empathize with the ever-increasing competitiveness of getting into medical school. I have mentored and advised multiple peers and friends from high school and college as they navigated the application process and look forward to extending that mentorship to many of you. It is my hope that we can work together to shape your narrative into meaningful essays and interview responses!

Duke University School of Medicine

Hi all! My name is Arthi and I’m a medical student at Duke. I am originally from New Jersey and went to Duke for undergrad where I was able to discover interests in medical humanities, global health, and peer mentorship. Having previously taught in an art studio, I found ways to engage with medical humanities through storytelling and creative arts with elders with dementia. In medical school, I help run a program that allows admitted patients to share their life story and with cartoon creations to simplify medical diagnoses. I also majored in global health and worked on projects in based in Uganda and India during undergrad that focused on studying how evidence-based interventions actually function in practice. I spent my gap year as a global health research assistant which allowed me to gain experience with all stages of project initiation, management, and dissemination. I’m working towards spending Duke’s MS3 research year engaging with global health implementation research on site. I don’t have any family in medicine so I asked for a lot of advice from upperclassmen and medical students throughout. I was a peer tutor for over 3 years and during my senior year, I started a peer advising program that’s goal was to reach beyond just academics. During that time, I mentored many premed students on course choice, finding research and volunteering experiences, applying to summer program and gap year jobs, MCAT, and building a school list. I continued many of these relationships since graduating and have been able to provide continued support through brainstorming and editing primary and secondary applications, interview prep, and ultimately decision making. One thing I’ve come to learn from my process and that my classmates is that there isn’t one right way to do things and it can be valuable to talk through and understand your priorities and the things that make you the most excited and craft your application around those. I know how stressful and draining each step of the application process can be and I would love the chance to provide some of guidance and support I received at whichever turn you need.

NYU Grossman School of Medicine Admissions Committee Experience

Hi! My name is Kate and I’m a current medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York City! I’m originally from Kingsport, Tennessee and attended Clemson University where I completed my undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering and a master’s degree in Applied Health Research. I have many years of experience as an advisor and mentor, mainly through working as study abroad ambassador and as a peer tutor and peer mentor through a Women in Engineering organization at my school. Later in college, I also worked as a teaching assistant for a challenging chemical engineering course in my degree. I also volunteered my time as a tour guide and was able to provide loads of advice and guidance to future students through that role. While finishing my master’s degree at Clemson University, I worked as a scribe at a gastroenterology clinic to boost my clinical experience hours. During this time, I also served as a mentor and health coach for a local volunteer organization with a mission to help people get off of government assistance. At Clemson, I had multiple research experiences ranging from social psychology to OB/GYN clinical research. I was also heavily involved with STEM outreach at local schools, ran a pitch competition, and volunteered as a conversational partner for international students who were learning English. I also spent the summer after I graduated college working at Interlochen Arts Camp as a camp counselor and reigniting my passion for theatre and the arts. I have had a slightly more non-traditional path to medicine (engineering degree/extracurriculars, taking a year to do a master’s, working at an arts camp), and I have a lot of experience in how to best weave together your own unique story in order to stand out to admissions committees. As a current medical student, I now spend my time working as an Admissions Ambassador and serving as a mentor to incoming students. I also currently interview for my medical school and so I can provide a lot of insight as I’ve sat on both sides of the Zoom interview screen. I look forward to helping you put your best foot forward in your applications and interviews for medical school!

Hello! I am a medical student at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons planning to apply into neurology this upcoming fall. I have extensive mentoring and advising experience both prior to medical school, when I served as a peer advisor for my undergraduate institution’s pre-health club, and as a medical student, continuing to advise undergraduates on essay writing, interview preparation, and general application and career advice. I also work as a mentor in the local community, tutoring and advising 8 th grade and high school age students interested in the health sciences. I have significant research and publication experience beginning as an undergraduate and continuing throughout medical school, having published four first-author manuscripts while contributing to multiple others. Prior to medical school, I spent a gap year as a National Institutes of Health Post-baccalaureate Intramural Research Training Award fellow, a role in which I studied Alzheimer’s disease proteomics and metabolomics. Currently, my research focus has shifted towards neuroinfectious diseases and contributions of infectious exposures to lifetime dementia risk. In addition to clinical medicine, I have a strong interest in public health and anthropology that informs my research and clinical pursuits. 

Hello! My name is Jessica, and I am a medical student at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine. I completed my undergraduate degree in Molecular & Cellular Biology at Johns Hopkins University, along with a minor in Entrepreneurship & Management. At Hopkins, I played on the varsity tennis team, served as a peer tutor, and volunteered at the JHH Sickle Cell Infusion Center. After graduating from college, I took on a full-time position at the Sickle Cell Infusion Center as a clinical research coordinator. I stayed in this role for one gap year, where I ran the largest registry of sickle cell disease patients in the United States, helping to characterize disparities faced in health outcomes and access to care. Since starting medical school, I have become heavily involved in cervical cancer research, volunteering at the Chinese Hospital in downtown San Francisco, and advocating for vulnerable populations. As a first-generation medical student, I understand how overwhelming the application process is and how vital near-peer guidance can be. I’ve helped several applicants through their application writing and interview process, who will all be matriculating to medical school this upcoming fall. I look forward to helping you curate your own story, put your best foot forward, and pursue your dream career!

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The last hurdle before the interview

Worried that there are so many essays that they all begin sounding the same?  Unsure if you’ve used the same anectode too many times?  We’re here to help you avoid “ secondary overload.” ‍ Our team will help you convey your interest and thoughtfulness to medical schools.  Our goal is after an admissions officer reads your secondaries, they will undoubtedly feel that you would be a great addition to their incoming class. Similar to our personal statement services, we will carefully work with you on brainstorming, tone, content, and word-choice in order to maximize your chances for an interview offer.  Our advisors will push you to introspect about your experiences and accentuate your strengths in each response.

Harvard MD Advisor

In-depth content edit

No brainstorm time

48-72 hour turnaround

Up to 3 edits*

30 minutes brainstorm

72 hour turnaround

60 minutes brainstorm

3-5 days turnaround

*In all editing packages, secondaries are limited to 500 words per school and 3 edits per secondary. Excess word-count will be deducted from unused secondary essays (for example, a 10-edit package is not to exceed 5,000 total words of secondary edits even if 10 schools has not been reached).

What students say about AcceptMed.

My experience with AcceptMed was overall really great! Zujaja's warm demeanor instantly put me at ease, especially since I was a little nervous doing a mock interview over video call (something I'd never done before). She was both supportive and insightful when giving feedback in our mock MMI, and the quality of feedback and discussion I had with Read more about review stating Great support for interview preparationher far surpassed that which I had received from any college advisor. In conducting our mock MMI, she was very flexible and tailored the MMI to my preferences by asking both traditional and situational/ethical questions. She also had great follow-up questions/push-back to my responses that made me think more deeply about the ethical issues at hand. I would definitely recommend AcceptMed and Zujaja to anyone who would like some constructive feedback and a boost of confidence going into interview day!

Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Want to know what admissions committees want to see? If you actually listen and take his suggestions, your application will be on another level. I got so many comments during interviews about the specific edits we worked on in my personal statement and experiences.

Honestly, this was a great experience. I looked into a lot of companies and was honestly very skeptical about hiring consulting but it was a really positive experience and I got good feedback that I haven’t gotten from anyone else (and I've asked other premed students, other med school students, as well as premed advising at my university). Ryan iRead more about review stating Ryan REALLY cares about his studentss also incredibly knowledgeable and paid a lot of attention to the details of my application. Admittedly I was really skeptical with his idea for how to change my essay because I did not think I could fit so much content in the character count but he really worked with me and despite only using 2 edits for my personal statement, I definitely think it came out better. He also responded very quickly to email and was proactive about helping me. It felt like he really cared about me and helping me make the best of my application.

As a reapplicant I was worried about not getting into schools again and was hesitant to use a consulting service. Looking back on it, I am so glad I did now with 4 MD acceptances including my top choice. Dr. K helped me find out what went wrong during my last cycle and make the necessary changes to my application. My stats didn't jump off the pageRead more about review stating Project Reapply: Success, but together we worked on making sure every single piece of my application was so much stronger than my last application cycle. When interviews came along, I felt much more prepared and at ease when discussing my application. You can bet I'm coming back for residency advice.

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• February 24, 2024

Elevating Your Medical School Application (2024-2025): The Ultimate Guide to Secondary Essays

AcceptedTogether Consultants

We are admissions consultants dedicated to helping you get into your dream school

• Medical School

Recent Posts

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Introduction

Understanding the Purpose of Secondary Essays

– The Specific Role of Secondary Essays in Medical School Applications

-How Secondary Essays Differ From Primary Applications

– Frequently Asked Questions About Secondary Essays

Identifying Common Themes in Secondary Essay Prompts

-The “Why our school?” Question

-Cultural Competency and Its Relevance

-Addressing “Overcoming Challenges” 

-Discussing “Future Goals”

Navigating Academic Lapses or Breaks

-Addressing Gap Years in Your Secondary Essays

-Demonstrating Growth and Learning During Breaks

Strategies for Effective Secondary Essays

– Timeliness in Submitting Secondaries

– Understanding the Number and Scope of Secondaries Required by Each School

– Planning Your Secondaries Without Exact Prompts

Crafting a Standout Secondary Essay

-Building on Your Primary Application: Strengthening Your Narrative

-Showcasing Your Fit: Aligning with the School’s Mission

-Fine-tuning Your Essay: The Importance of Editing and Review

INTRODUCTION 

Navigating the labyrinth of medical school applications is no easy task. As you juggle GPAs, MCAT scores, and primary applications, you may find yourself confronting an often underestimated but crucial component of the process: the secondary essay. While the primary application showcases your academic prowess and general experience, the secondary essay delves deeper, offering medical schools a window into your unique journey, values, and compatibility with their program.

This important tool in your medical school application arsenal requires careful handling. Crafting a compelling secondary essay for some medical schools involves more than a demonstration of your academic accomplishments; it’s an artful balance of personal narrative, future aspirations, and a dash of persuasion. This is your opportunity to let admissions committees know why you are not just another aspiring medical professional, but a future physician with a distinct voice and a dream that aligns seamlessly with their mission.

Whether you’re discussing a personal challenge, portraying your cultural competency, or illustrating your fit with a particular school, each word you inscribe adds color to your application, transforming you from a list of grades and scores to a vibrant, three-dimensional candidate. With strategic planning, thoughtful reflection, and a little creativity, the secondary essay can become your secret weapon in getting the acceptance letter. 

In the demanding journey to medical school, the secondary essay often gets overshadowed by other application components. However, understanding its purpose and the pivotal role it plays in admissions is key to crafting an application that resonates with the admission committee.

The Specific Role of Secondary Essays in Medical School Applications

The primary function of secondary essays in medical school applications is to showcase your unique character and motivations that extend beyond academic achievements. While your GPA and MCAT score demonstrate your intellectual aptitude, the secondary essay allows the admissions team to connect with you on a personal level. These essays are an opportunity to spotlight your journey, your obstacles, and the lessons learned along the way. They also serve to highlight your understanding of the medical profession and your commitment to the school’s specific mission. 

Crafting a powerful secondary essay is more than just answering a question; it’s about constructing a narrative that underlines your dedication, resilience, and suitability for the medical profession. From discussing a significant challenge to showcasing your cultural competency, these essays offer a platform to prove your readiness for the rigors of medical school and your potential contribution to the field.

How Secondary Essays Differ From Primary Applications

The key difference between primary applications and secondary essays lies in their focus. While primary applications broadly outline your qualifications and experiences, secondary essays dive deeper into the particulars. They aim to unveil the person behind the test scores and grades, giving insight into your character, values, and aspirations. 

In contrast to the more general questions in primary applications, secondary essays tend to be school-specific, asking you to connect your goals and experiences with the mission and values of the institution. These prompts can range from exploring your understanding of a school’s specific approach to healthcare, such as community-focused care, to your plans of utilizing their unique resources or programs. 

Through your secondary essay, you have the chance to demonstrate why you are a fit for medical school in general and why you are a perfect match for their particular program. To do this effectively,you must have a well-researched understanding of the school’s ethos, curriculum, and community initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Secondary Essays

There are a number of frequently asked questions about secondary essays. One of the most common is about timing. While there isn’t a hard and fast rule, it’s recommended to submit your secondary essays within two weeks of receiving them. This shows your keen interest and commitment to the school. 

Another common query relates to the number of essays required. The number can vary from one school to another, with some schools requiring just one or two essays while others might require up to ten. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements of your chosen schools well in advance. 

Another popular question is about what happens if you miss the deadline. This could significantly impact your application, as it may be interpreted as a lack of dedication. Most schools prefer to see a commitment to their institution, which is demonstrated by submitting your secondary essays promptly and of high quality. 

Understanding the purpose and significance of secondary essays in your medical school application is the first step towards crafting a narrative that paints a comprehensive picture of your candidacy, revealing not just a future doctor, but a future leader and innovator in the healthcare field.

In the intricate labyrinth of medical school applications, decoding secondary essay prompts may seem like a challenge. By identifying recurring themes in these prompts, you can strategically prepare your responses to effectively articulate your suitability for a medical career.

The “Why our school?” Question

The “Why our school?” query is one of the most common themes in secondary essay prompts. This question provides the admissions committee with insight into how you resonate with their school’s mission, values, and program specifics. It’s crucial that your response reflects a genuine understanding and alignment with their ethos.

Your answer should reveal a well-researched understanding of the school’s unique features, whether it be their cutting-edge research opportunities, community-focused healthcare programs, or distinctive curriculum. Your goal is to clearly express why you’re a perfect fit for their school and how their resources align with your career aspirations. A tailored response emphasizing your alignment with the institution’s mission is more likely to impress than a generic statement.

Cultural Competency and Its Relevance

Cultural competency is another common theme within secondary essay prompts. Given the global nature of healthcare and the increasing diversity of patient populations, demonstrating your ability to navigate different cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles is vital.

When addressing cultural competency in your secondary essay, consider examples from your personal or professional life where you’ve dealt with diverse groups or managed cultural barriers. Discuss your learnings from these experiences and how they have prepared you to be a more compassionate and effective healthcare provider.

Addressing “Overcoming Challenges”

The theme of “overcoming challenges” is frequently included in secondary essay prompts. Admissions committees are interested in understanding how you react in the face of adversity, as it’s a reflection of your resilience, a trait essential for a demanding career in medicine.

Addressing this theme, focus on a situation where you faced significant adversity, how you approached it, and most importantly, what you learned from it. The emphasis should be on growth and resilience rather than the hardship itself. This gives the admissions committee an insight into your problem-solving abilities and your potential to deal with the rigorous demands of medical school and beyond.

Discussing “Future Goals”

Another recurring theme in secondary essays is “future goals”. Here, you’re expected to  describe your career ambitions clearly and how the specific medical school can help you achieve them.

While discussing future goals, remember to strike a balance between being specific and being flexible. For instance, while you may have a strong interest in oncology now, it’s important to acknowledge the diverse range of experiences that medical school can offer, and that your interest could evolve. Always link your future goals to the specific opportunities the school offers, thereby demonstrating that your plans align with their academic mission.

In summary, a well-crafted secondary essay is an opportunity to express your fit for a specific medical school and the profession at large. By recognizing common themes and understanding how to address them, you’re able to stand out in the competitive medical school application process.

At first glance, academic lapses or breaks might seem like obstacles on your journey to medical school. However, with a strategic approach and well-crafted secondary essay, these seemingly negative points can be turned into areas of growth, learning, and resilience, painting a powerful picture of your medical school candidacy.

Addressing A Gap Year/Gap Years in Your Secondary Essays

The concept of taking a gap year is becoming increasingly common among prospective medical school students. Gap years can provide you with experiences and skills that can ultimately strengthen your application, provided they are communicated effectively in your secondary essay.

When addressing a gap year, honesty and clarity are crucial. Whether you spent your time traveling, volunteering, conducting research, or working, it’s important to articulate why you chose to take a gap year, what you did during this time, and how these experiences have contributed to your personal and professional development. Avoid negative language, focusing instead on the skills acquired, insights gained, and how these experiences have solidified your commitment to a career in medicine.

Remember, medical schools are not just looking for students who have excelled academically; they are looking for well-rounded individuals with diverse experiences and life skills. A gap year can demonstrate your initiative, maturity, and ability to step out of your comfort zone, all of which are valued in the medical profession.

Demonstrating Growth and Learning During Breaks

Apart from gap years, there might be other breaks or lapses in your academic career. Rather than shying away from discussing these periods, it’s crucial to address them head-on in your secondary essays. Whether it be a health issue, personal circumstances, or a decision to pursue other interests, every break has the potential to show your resilience, adaptability, and capacity for growth.

When discussing academic breaks, the focus should be on what you’ve learned from the experience and how you’ve grown during this period. Did you develop new skills? Did you gain a different perspective? Perhaps, you discovered a new area of interest or further cemented your commitment to medicine. Be candid about the circumstances, but place a greater emphasis on your learnings and how they’ve made you a stronger candidate for medical school.

In conclusion, academic lapses or breaks are not red flags in your application if they’re addressed effectively. By focusing on the skills and experiences you’ve gained, your secondary essay can transform these periods into compelling narratives of growth and perseverance, making you stand out in the competitive medical school application process.

Crafting a compelling secondary essay can feel like a daunting task, but it’s an essential component of your medical school application. By strategically approaching this process, you can increase your chances of leaving a lasting impression and making you stand out. 

Timeliness in Submitting Secondaries

In the fast-paced and competitive world of medical school applications, time is of the essence. It’s no different when it comes to secondary essays. Medical schools employ a rolling admissions process, meaning the sooner you submit your secondary essays, the sooner your application can be reviewed.

Being prompt can demonstrate your interest and commitment to the medical school, giving you an edge in the application process. To ensure timeliness, start working on your secondary essays as soon as you receive the prompts. Aim to submit them within two weeks of receipt while ensuring that the quality of your writing is not compromised. While speed is important, it should not overshadow the need for a thoughtful, well-written secondary essay.

Understanding the Number and Scope of Secondaries Required by Each School

Each medical school has its unique requirements for secondary essays, varying in the number and nature of prompts. Understanding these requirements is crucial to tailor your responses effectively. 

Invest time in researching each medical school’s specific needs for secondary essays but also do a lot of self-reflection about your values. Some schools might have a few straightforward questions, while others might present more complex prompts requiring deeper reflection. Some may even offer optional essays, providing an extra opportunity to showcase your qualities and commitment to medicine.

By understanding the scope of what each school expects, you can align your secondary essays with their particular values and expectations, thereby increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Planning Your Secondaries Without Exact Prompts

While it’s ideal to have the exact prompts in hand before you start writing, it’s not always possible due to the unpredictable nature of the application process. However, don’t let this uncertainty paralyze you. 

Drawing from past prompts and common themes can help you plan your secondary essays. Reflect on your experiences, lessons learned, and future aspirations in the context of these themes. This preparation will help you respond more quickly and effectively when you receive the actual prompts.

In conclusion, a successful secondary essay requires strategic planning, a clear understanding of each school’s requirements, and timeliness in submission. By focusing on these key areas, your secondary essay can truly enhance your medical school application, showcasing your unique experiences and dedication to the field of medicine.

Understanding how to create an impressive secondary essay is essential in the medical school application process. With the right approach, you can leverage this opportunity to further strengthen your application and leave a lasting impression.

Building on Your Primary Application: Strengthening Your Narrative

The secondary essay is not an isolated piece; it should weave seamlessly into your primary application’s narrative. This gives you the chance to elaborate on critical points in your primary application and bring attention to areas you may have glossed over initially. The secondary essay provides an additional platform to further outline your passion, commitment, and suitability for medical school. You can even discuss your motivations for medicine in a more profound and unique manner, strengthening your overall narrative.

Showcasing Your Fit: Aligning with the School’s Mission

One of the essential aspects of a secondary essay is demonstrating how you align with the medical school’s mission and values. Medical schools aim to admit students who will become excellent doctors, contributing positively to their community and profession. Thus, it is crucial to research the school’s values, culture, and academic offerings to understand what they seek in their students. Then, frame your experiences, interests, and future plans to match these elements, showcasing that you are an excellent fit.

Fine-tuning Your Essay: The Importance of Editing and Review

Finally, putting together a secondary essay is not just about writing; it’s equally about revising, refining, and making sure your narrative is clear, compelling, and error-free. Make use of available resources like essay editing tools, peer reviews, and mentor feedback to refine your essays. This can help you eliminate any grammatical errors, enhance the clarity of your argument, and ensure that your tone resonates with the target audience, in this case, the medical school admission committees.

Creating a well-rounded and engaging secondary essay is no small feat, but the investment of time and effort can significantly boost your chances of admission. By following these strategies, you can create an impressive and persuasive secondary essay that stands out in the competitive landscape of medical school admissions.

Check out our database of medical students/resident physicians who can help you achieve the 4th quartile by clicking below:

Navigating the medical school application process can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to mastering the intricacies of the secondary essay. This essential piece of your application serves as a crucial platform for you to highlight your strengths, align yourself with the mission of the school, and present a compelling narrative about your journey and future aspirations in the field of medicine.

To create an exceptional secondary essay, it’s critical to understand its purpose, identify common themes in the prompts, and strategize effectively for timely submission. It’s also essential to tackle any challenges or gaps in your academic journey with honesty and maturity, showcasing your ability to learn and grow from experiences. 

Remember, the most standout secondary essays are not just well-written but also demonstrate a clear understanding of the school’s values, highlighting the applicant’s fit and potential contribution to the institution. Moreover, they reflect a cohesive narrative that builds on the primary application and enhances the candidate’s profile.

By applying the strategies discussed in this article, you can turn your secondary essay from a daunting hurdle into a powerful tool that elevates your medical school application. Remember, the journey to medical school is a marathon, not a sprint, and every part of your application, including the secondary essay, plays a pivotal role in crossing the finish line successfully. Good luck with your application journey!

1. What are secondary essays for medical school?

   Secondary essays for medical school serve a unique purpose. They offer applicants a chance to provide the admissions committee with more detailed insight into their character, experiences, and aspirations, thereby complementing the primary application.

2. How long should a medical school secondary essay be?

   The length of a medical school secondary essay can vary, but most schools prefer concise, focused essays. While there is no exact word limit provided in the inserted chunks, keeping the essay to about 500 words or less would be generally advisable.

3. Does everyone get secondaries?

   Not all applicants are sent secondary applications. Some medical schools screen applicants before sending secondaries. However, the specifics can vary between schools, and the inserted chunks do not provide further details.

4. How do you make a secondary essay stand out?

   To make a secondary essay stand out, ensure that it is tailored to each specific school’s mission and values. Show how you fit into their program by providing clear examples and narratives that build on your primary application. Also, make sure to edit and review your essay thoroughly.

5. How late is too late for secondaries?

   Timeliness is crucial when submitting secondary essays. While there is no concrete deadline mentioned in the inserted chunks, it’s generally recommended to submit secondaries as soon as possible after receiving them, while ensuring the quality of your responses.

6. Do secondaries have to be perfect?

   While perfection may not be possible, it’s crucial that secondary essays are of high quality. They need to be well-structured, free of errors, and provide compelling narratives that build upon the primary application.

7. Can you get secondaries without MCAT scores?

    While MCAT scores are a key component of the medical school application, the inserted chunks do not specify if schools send secondary applications without receiving these scores. The process may vary between schools.

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Medical   Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Tips [2024 – 2025]

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9 Steps to Writing Stellar Medical School Secondary Applications

• By Amit Pandey, M.D.
• June 30, 2022
• Accompanying Video , Pre-med
• Secondary Application

Much of a medical school applicant’s focus prior to submitting the primary application is on their personal statement. This is for good reason, as the personal statement is an important and difficult component of the initial application, which cannot be taken lightly. Equally important though is the secondary application. It is absolutely crucial not to overlook this part of the application process, no matter how drained you may feel.

Secondary essays must be handled with great attention and care. A systematic approach to secondary writing will facilitate this process. This post will outline 9 key strategies to use as well as pitfalls to avoid when crafting a secondary application.

How Secondaries Fit Within the Medical School Application Process

First of all, what is the secondary application? As its name suggests, it is the second component that is sent to an applicant after they submit the primary application. They are also referred to by some programs as the “supplemental application.” Each school has a unique secondary, which contrasts the common primary, which is sent to several schools through AMCAS, AACOMAS, or TMDSAS .

The secondary is a chance for each school to get more information from the applicant through a series of short essay questions. Questions will be unique to each program, though there is a fair amount of overlap among them. There is a spectrum of what secondaries actually look like. Some consist of several short answer questions while a few request a longer essay. The average secondary consists of 2-3 short essays about the applicant’s experiences and interest in that particular school.

For those who submit their primary in June, which is highly recommended, secondary invitations will arrive in late June and early July, continuing throughout the summer thereafter.

For more details on the background and approach, see our other content on secondary applications:

• Medical School Secondary Application Guide
• Secondary Applications – What to Expect and How to Approach Them
• How to Start Medical School Secondaries Early

Strategies for Crafting Outstanding Secondaries

1 | get organized.

Secondary applications can be overwhelming since they arrive in quick succession. Each school will send a different secondary with unique essay questions. This means you will be faced with several, possibly dozens, of applications within a 1-2 month period. This necessitates organization in your approach.

I recommend creating a spreadsheet listing each program with the following components: name of school, date of secondary receipt, submission deadline, number of essay questions, school ranking, and relative ranking of importance to you. See this example based on secondaries from a previous application cycle:

This system will allow you to keep track of each school and organize your approach based on the difficulty of the secondary and the school’s importance to you.

2 | Prioritize Certain Schools

You will have to decide which secondaries to do in which order, as you will likely get several at a time. Using the spreadsheet you created, you will have the information needed to make the decision.

• Top Choice: Consider applying to your top choice or best fit schools first. This will allow you to get ahead of the curve of rolling admissions , maximizing your position to get an interview.
• Most Competitive: Consider applying to the most competitive schools first for the same reason as above.
• Lower Rank: Consider submitting some secondaries for the lower ranked/lower preference schools prior to submitting higher ranked/higher preference ones. This will afford you some practice, possibly making your later secondary essays more effective. Once you have done this and honed your essay writing a bit, focus on the competitive or high-priority programs.
• Most/Difficult Questions: Consider tackling secondaries with a lot of questions first so that you have more content to work with for subsequent secondary applications.

3 | Tailor Your Response to Each Medical School

It is important to be specific in secondary applications. You have the opportunity to research the program and be informed about its strengths and weaknesses and how those pertain to your goals.

Background research and preparation is key for these essays. Take the time to look at the program website. See if you can identify a research, clinical, or community outreach aspect of the program that fits with your personal goals. It will be important in at least some essay responses to specifically answer the question: “Why is this program the right fit for me?” At the same time, be honest—it will show if you embellish or stretch the truth.

Learn more: How to Answer the Medical School Secondary “Why Us?” Question .

Along the lines of preparation and research, you can look up the previous essay prompts for schools you have applied to. This gives you more time to research, brainstorm, and prepare an essay response. This may be particularly useful for your high-priority programs. The Med School Insiders Secondary Database is up-to-date with secondary prompts from each school. It also contains previous high-yield writing tips on how to appropriately answer each prompt.

4 | Outline Prior to Writing

Create an outline prior to writing each essay. Secondaries contain multiple (sometimes several) essay questions each, so it’s important to plan and outline an answer to each question in an individual application before writing.

This will prevent you from repeating ideas or themes on questions that may overlap. You’ll also be better able to plan out a cohesive narrative across your secondary application—one that adds to and enhances your primary application.

Learn How to Develop a Cohesive Narrative for Medical School Applications .

5 | Focus on Quality Over Speed

Do not prioritize speed over quality of content. You must have well-written essays with well-crafted answers. Make sure you answer the specific question being asked, as the prompts will often be less open-ended than the personal statement.

Remember to answer the following overarching questions in your responses:

• What makes me unique?
• Why am I the right fit for this program?
• Why am I interested in this institution in particular?

Weaving these themes into your answers will strengthen your application for that institution specifically and ensure quality content. As much as you may want to send them off quickly and move on to your next set of questions, take time to edit and proofread thoroughly.

6 | DO NOT Repeat Your Primary Application

This is a crucial piece of advice and a common pitfall for applicants. The admissions committee already has all the information in your primary. This is your opportunity to show them something new.

Focus on different strengths and experiences that demonstrate why you are a great candidate. By repeating things, you will lose the chance to sell yourself further while actually hurting the strength of your application. If you do touch on an experience that has been described before, be sure to elaborate or shine a different light on the subject.

7 | Be Careful Copying and Pasting

With so many essay prompts coming in, some will invariably overlap between schools. It is acceptable to carry over common answers to multiple applications, but be very careful when doing so.

If copying and pasting a response, make sure you closely review it and ensure that it adequately answers the question. Furthermore, be sure there is no language or specific component referring to another school, as this is a clear red flag on your application. Tailor the response to the specific program, if possible.

8 | Take the Appropriate Amount of Time

One of my all-time favorite quotes is from legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden: “Be quick but don’t hurry.”

This could not be more applicable here. It is certainly important to be timely with your responses to prevent falling behind in the rolling admissions process, but you also do not want to compromise quality.

It is reasonable to take a few days to complete secondaries, particularly the more important ones. Try to respond within 7-14 days. You can work on multiple applications concurrently to stay fresh, coming back to essays in the next day or so to review.

The key is to ensure high quality. Don’t hurry. Timeliness is only helpful if the application is effective.

9 | Get Feedback

This last piece of advice connects closely with the prior point. Most applicants know that it is crucial to have their personal statement reviewed by others. It may be harder to do so for secondaries due to sheer volume, and therefore soliciting feedback may be overlooked.

While the time constraints and volume of essays is undeniable, I urge you to still seek feedback on secondary essays as often as you can. Particularly for your high-priority programs, your essays should certainly be reviewed by someone with experience in the medical school application process.

Med School Insiders offers Secondary Application Editing Services with rapid turnaround. Our team of doctors provide in-depth, professional, high-yield advice to help perfect your secondary applications. Our editors can assist with any part of the secondary process, from brainstorming ideas all the way to fine-tuning the details of the essay. We provide edits and feedback quickly to make sure you are on time and on target with all of your secondaries.

All of our advisors are real doctors who have served on medical school admissions committees, so they know what it takes to stand out.

Amit Pandey, M.D.

2024 TMDSAS Secondary Application Guide

Learn how to create a stand out TMDSAS secondary application, including secondary deadlines, costs, the types of questions asked, and critical strategies.

2024 AACOMAS Secondary Application Guide

Learn how to create a stand out AACOMAS secondary application, including secondary deadlines, costs, the types of questions asked, and critical strategies.

2024-2025 Medical School Application Timeline and Monthly Schedule

This is the medical school application timeline you should follow, including key dates and an ideal month-by-month preparation schedule.

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Your Medical School Secondary Essay Guide with 4 Real-Life Examples

Posted in: Applying to Medical School

Table of Contents

If you meet a medical program’s basic requirements and their AdComs think you deserve a second look, you’ll be asked to fill out a secondary application. It’s the first exciting step in the process after submitting your primary application that suggests a medical school may be interested in what you can bring to their program.

AdComs use secondary applications to learn more about you and determine which applicants are the best fit for their programs. Secondaries are generally comprised of a series of questions that you’ll answer with short essays.

Want a head start? Check out Prospective Doctor’s database of school-specific prompts for the 2024/25 application cycle .

You should write personalized responses to each program’s secondary essay prompts, but since many of these prompts fit into several basic categories, it’s not quite as daunting a task as writing your personal statement for the primary application. These often fit into broad topics like:

• Why you took a gap year
• Leadership experience
• Types of adversity you have faced
• Why you’re interested in a particular institution
• “Anything else we should know?”

Keep reading for tips on how to write effectively, which essays to prioritize, and how quick your timeline may be. By following these tips, you can effectively showcase your strengths and interests to medical schools and increase your chances of being accepted.

Want expert help to ace your secondaries and med school interviews? Join the 92% of our clients who get into med school.

Secondary essay examples for inspiration.

Below, I’ve provided four medical school secondary essay examples. They cover a wide range of subjects and are all real-life examples from our coaching clients, and each student was later accepted by the requesting medical program.

Prompt: Please briefly discuss your research experience. (500 words max)

Essay: Our current study investigates activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) as a biomarker for spinal cord injury and stroke. We found specific induction of ATF3 in rodent CNS neurons and significant increase in human serum ATF3 within one day of injury or stroke. ATF KO mice also had worsened neurological outcome post-injury, suggesting that ATF3 has some neuroprotective function. As a staff research associate, I use tissue samples to examine the expression of ATF3 on an individual cellular level. To determine correlation between ATF3 levels, AIS score, and AIS improvement of SCI patients, I collect blood samples to quantify biomarker levels. Preliminary data from our ongoing study also demonstrates a positive correlation between serum ATF3 and injury severity in rodents and humans. To design experiments and present my findings, I use analytical skills and practice effective communication. 

In undergrad, our lab focused on the nature and function of fear. One challenge in treating PTSD is understanding why some individuals develop disorders while others do not. Using stress-enhanced fear learning procedures, we studied fear-learning as well as voluntary alcohol intake in rodents. The ability to identify potential factors that promote susceptibility will serve as a valuable tool to examine proposed risk factors of PTSD and work toward preventing and reducing the severity of certain mental illnesses. In this role, I strengthened my benchwork, animal handling, and critical thinking skills. 

I also worked as a research assistant in a developmental psychology lab at UCLA. Project PEAR investigated executive functioning by assessing how children sustain attention and persist during challenging tasks. I helped run EEG and behavioral sessions, during which I instructed children on tasks while measuring brain activity. The CARE study examined why certain children have more difficulty managing their worries and fears, with the goal of discerning more effective coping mechanisms. I coded audio and video to identify strategies for teachers and parents to use in promoting positive development. Through this experience, I practiced working with children and nurtured my compassion.

Prompt: Describe your identity and how it has impacted the development of your values and attitudes toward individuals different from yourself and how this will impact your interactions with future colleagues and patients. (2500 characters)

Essay: Growing up, I traveled to India during summers to visit my family. Living in India for months at a time allowed me to understand the rich history of my ancestral homeland, Hyderabad. Unlike other parts of India, Hyderabad historically saw collaboration between Hindus and Muslims. They set aside their differences to live peacefully and build long-lasting monuments, such as the Charminar, symbolizing the value of tolerance on which Hyderabad was established. I experienced firsthand how coexistence between Hindus and Muslims persists today, as my family tailor and my apartment watchman have Arabic names and practice Islamic traditions. Recognizing this aspect of my heritage informed my identity as someone who celebrates diversity and understands its importance.

Upon returning to the US, I had a new appreciation for the values of diversity and acceptance, which I now noticed in my hometown as well. Although the people in my community had our differences, we assisted one another during difficult times. Whether it was shoveling driveways during snowstorms or babysitting children of our working neighbors, we could count on the people living around us to understand our needs and support one another. The values I learned from my neighbors continue inspiring me to behave altruistically and help those in need whenever possible.

My experiences reflect the richness of my life as well as the dual nature of my identity. I embody diverse values because I am both an Indian with deep ties to centuries of history and tolerance and an American with compassionate attributes. Throughout my undergraduate years, I delivered meals at food banks, served underprivileged groups and clinics, and treated patients experiencing multiple medical comorbidities as an EMT. By taking these actions, I aim to apply the diverse aspect of my identity in my life and help others overcome the challenges they face.

As a physician, I hope these core values will meaningfully shape my interactions with colleagues and patients. I will work alongside colleagues and staff to collectively improve patient outcomes. With my patients, I will act compassionately and dedicate myself to addressing their needs through high-quality care. Witnessing different parts of the world, learning to appreciate different backgrounds, and selflessly contributing to others’ health will serve me well as I work toward these goals.

Read Next: Writing a Diversity Essay for Medical School (with Examples)

Prompt: The Medical College of [LOCATION] is committed to educating health professionals who are dedicated to improving health equity across the diverse populations we serve. Share with us what you have learned or how you have grown through working with or serving people from cultural backgrounds or groups different than your own. How do you believe you can contribute to improving health equity or reducing health disparities as a physician? (2000 characters)

Essay: I can contribute to improving health equity because I have a passion and skillset for caring for persons with disabilities. When I was a freshman, my grandma with Alzheimer’s moved in, and I started to care for her. While caring for her, I learned new communication skills to keep her safe and happy. Initially, it was hard to see her reckon with the side effects of dementia, but I learned to accept her changes by forming new connections and appreciating the person she has become. Caring for my grandmother showed me the positive impact of caring for others, so I applied for a supervisor role in an assisted living facility, where I have helped over 50 residents with varying disabilities. I have worked with nonverbal residents who need assistance in every aspect of life, along with independent residents whom I help with social skills by assisting them in engaging with the community at men’s groups, book clubs, and part-time jobs

Common Questions You May Be Asked

There are specific questions you may be commonly asked in secondary applications. Each medical school has a different process, but there are some patterns.

The number of secondary essay prompts from any given medical school can vary wildly. Some schools may have 1-2 prompts, while others may have a whole slew. Carefully read and follow the prompts provided. Tailor your responses to meet their specific needs and requirements.

The length of your response will also vary. Some prompts allow 300 word limits while others allow up to 500-1000 characters.

Below are some FAQs I see a lot on secondary applications. Knowing what to expect and how to answer them will help the process go faster.

Why do you want to come to [MEDICAL SCHOOL]?

Ah, the dreaded “Why us?” question. Research a school’s website to see what they think they offer, but your response should not directly copy and paste from there.

Instead, use their words as inspiration. Relate back to your experiences and how that fits in with a particular school. Show that you’ve done your research and that you can contribute to this school’s mission statement.

Here are a few tips for approaching the “why this school” question :

• Get specific. Highlight unique programs, opportunities, or faculty at this school that appeal to you. This could be a particular research focus, clinical training opportunities, or student organizations that align with your interests.
• Exhibit your shared values. Explain how the school’s mission and values align with your own. This will show that you have a genuine connection to the school and are a good fit for their community.
• Name drop (sort of). Mention any connections you have to the school, but be modest. This could be a personal connection, such as loved ones who graduated from the school, or a professional connection, such as having a physician affiliated with the school as a mentor. Make sure it’s authentic, as the person you mention will likely be asked to confirm the relationship.

This is also great research to do prior to an interview, as it will likely come up during that process as well.

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What is your most important relationship? Who is the most influential person in your life?

This sort of question should be easy to answer. Of course, you can choose a parent or relative, but you can also think outside the box and choose a teacher or a professor.

It’s not the particular person you choose that’s important; it’s how they inspired you to be the person you are, especially if they helped you want to be a physician.

• If you write, “My dad is important to me because he was a doctor and he showed me how to take care of patients,” it will not get you anywhere.
• Instead, you could write, “My dad showed me from an early age what it means to take care of people.” [This makes the reader think, “How did he show you?”] “Not only is he a well-respected doctor in the community,” [Reader: “So this applicant has healthcare in his blood.”] “…but he also shows his care for others through volunteer work.” [Reader: “Oh, he and his family do non-profit work.”] “He often brought me along to volunteer with him at a pop-up clinic, where I saw the dignity he conferred to others…” [Reader: “Giving underserved people dignity is important and natural to him.”] And so on…

What is your most important extracurricular?

Don’t be annoyed by these questions, even though it may feel like you already answered them on the AMCAS .

There are a few approaches to answering this question. If a single activity really is most important, and you already wrote about it as one of your three most meaningful experiences on your AMCAS, you can write about it again in more detail.

If there is something dominant in your life, write about that. For example, if you are a classical musician on the side, a prolific actor in the community, or the area’s top chess player, discuss it!

I would avoid discussing shadowing experiences. Did following around a doctor really change your life? If it really did, talk about it honestly. But don’t force it.

Tell us more about the research you conducted.

This is a straightforward question in which you can discuss your most significant research activities. Make sure to give the reader a framework in the first few sentences. Show them the big picture of your project or lab without bogging the paragraph down with nitty-gritty details.

• Do not start a paragraph with context-less jargon, such as this: “I studied receptor RLAJKNCH – r897 which showed that there was no uptake in expression when compared to JLKASN – 8343 when exposed to methyl-alpha-dioxide.”
• Do write in this style: “The purpose of our research was to understand how toxins affect cells, which in turn could be used to eventually try to come up with novel drugs. In particular, I studied…”

What are your long-term goals?

You don’t need a chosen specialty or fellowship to write about it here — AdComs expect these choices to grow and morph as you actually attend med school. Instead, you can say you are leaning towards X and Y because you have been exposed to them in the past. Or you know you love working with children, and so you’d love to do pediatrics.

Think about how your past experiences fit into your future goals. If you have participated in global health trips , perhaps you want to mention that and say you eventually would love to do international healthcare work.

As always, research each specific school so you can ensure your long-term goals align with their mission.

What do you add to the class? (Diversity)

Diversity is strength — in all its forms. Remember, diversity and inequities come in many packages. Skin color is certainly one of them, but there is so much more. If you are Asian, you may not be considered as diverse when it comes to applying to medical school . Same thing if you are Caucasian.

But what about diversity in your field of study in college? In your interests? In your musical talents? Or in your computer programming skills? Do you come from a unique background in any way?

Read Next: How to Write the Diversity Secondary Essay for Medical School

If you really cannot think of a single thing that distinguishes you, you may be in the wrong field. There is something interesting about you. Find it, and write about it here.

Can you describe a challenge you have overcome?

Lots of medical students say, “I’ve never had a challenge.” While it may be true you didn’t grow up unhoused, surely your life hasn’t been free of hiccups. That said, you should not overplay the time you broke your little toe and couldn’t get to class on time. Steer clear of unethical or insensitive examples.

Examples may include a death in the family, a time when you had to adjust to a new life outside of the home, a time when your sibling was going through depression and you had to help him, etc.

Here are my recommendations for this question:

• Keep it interesting. Boring writing gets looked over, and you want to stand out.
• Connect it back. Relate what you’re saying to things you’ve already done or genuinely want to do.
• Follow instructions. I’ll say it again — give the school what it’s looking for, not tangents and non-sequiturs.

Anything else you’d like us to know?

This question is challenging, but think about your best qualities — your most unique qualities. Have you been able to talk about those traits? If not, here’s your opportunity.

Don’t bore the admissions board with high school stories or irrelevant anecdotes. Instead, exhibit your strength as a prospective med student, your cultural competency, gap year activities if applicable, and your value to the school and to the medical field. Most of these prompts say it outright but don’t reuse your AMCAS personal statement .

My Tips for Secondary Essays

I’ve written secondaries — I get it. Although some of this long process may frustrate you, I recommend you take a deep breath and do your best work in a timely manner. There’s a good reason for secondaries, and there are ways to increase your chances.

Here are my top tips for secondary application essay writing:

• Pre-write common responses. Before you receive secondaries, draft up some compelling answers to common secondary questions. Don’t submit these pre-writes word for word, but you can still save time by having something to edit instead of writing a response from scratch.
• Read the instructions carefully. Pay attention to the specific requirements for each secondary application. Some schools may have specific essay prompts, while others may ask for additional information about your experiences or goals that you already discussed on your AMCAS. Know what is expected of you before you begin.
• Prioritize for the best results. First, I would tackle those that you think are short and easy (i.e. no essays or maybe one very short essay). Then move on to your top choice schools. If there is a secondary that has a really tough question, come back to it with a fresh mind at a later time.
• Start early. Secondary applications can take a significant amount of time to complete, so it is crucial to start working on them as soon as possible. You need enough time to thoughtfully complete each application and avoid feeling rushed or stressed.
• Tailor your responses. You may be tempted to copy and paste your responses from one application to the next, but you must tailor your responses to each school. Show that you did your research and are genuinely interested in attending that particular program.
• Proofread. As with any written communication, you must proofread your secondary application for spelling, grammatical, and formatting errors. A well-written application can make a strong impression, while a poorly written one will kill your chances.
• Avoid feeling overwhelmed. You may feel like a bunch of medical schools suddenly inundate you with applications all at one time. You are now looking at a stack of 20 applications, each with 1-6 essays on them. But if you plan ahead and pre-write your essays, you can avoid a lot of that overwhelm. Get a jump start on your secondaries to avoid most of the stress.
• Avoid answering generic questions generically. If you get generic questions like, “Why do you want to come here?” You will feel like saying, “Because it’s a medical school! Why else?!” Instead, tailor your responses, do your research, and add a personal flair that helps your secondary stand out. (This is one reason you should avoid asking ChatGPT to write your answer , although chatbots like it can help in the editing process.)
• Avoid getting frustrated if you already answered a question. Some secondaries ask you to elaborate on experiences you listed on your AMCAS application cycle, or some may repeat a question without acknowledging you ever answered it at all. You can only answer, “Tell us about your most important activities,” in so many ways. Instead of getting frustrated, consider how lucky you are to have gotten a secondary where they want to hear more from you. That’s a good sign you’re being strongly considered for admission!

How Quickly Do I Need to Send In My Secondaries?

I recommend that you complete and submit your medical school secondary applications as soon as possible, as most schools make admissions decisions on a rolling basis. However, it is also important that you have enough time to carefully complete each secondary application and tailor your responses to each school.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: aim to complete and submit each secondary application within 1-2 weeks of receiving it. This timeframe will allow you to thoroughly review the prompts and requirements, gather any necessary materials, and craft well-written responses.

On the other hand, some schools may have specific deadlines for secondary applications, so check the requirements for each school that sends you secondaries. Submit secondary applications at least 2-3 days before the deadline, if possible. Don’t wait until the last minute.

Prioritizing the completion of your secondary applications, managing your time well, and meeting deadlines will demonstrate your commitment to the medical school admissions process and increase your chances of being accepted .

Can I Reuse Secondary Essays for Multiple Programs?

You should reuse information when writing essays for multiple schools. However, that information should always be tailored to the specific program you’re applying to. Make a judgment call about which wording you can copy and paste and what you should write from scratch.

Remember that each medical school has its own mission, values, programs, and opportunities. Be sure that your essays highlight how you align with and will fit into each school’s specific community.

Can I Reuse Secondaries from Past Application Cycles?

It is not advisable to reuse medical school secondary essays from a previous application. To improve your odds the second time around, you have to show schools that you’ve grown as an applicant. This means incorporating information about any new experiences and qualifications you’ve earned since your previous application attempt.

Think about it — what good is re-submitting an essay that wasn’t successful the first time around? Rewrite it if you want to boost your chances.

Also, remember that the schools you are applying to this time around may have different essay prompts or may be looking for different information in their secondary essays.

Is Getting a Secondary a Sign I’m Likely to Be Accepted?

Getting a secondary is a good sign, but it’s not a sure sign you’ll get accepted. It does indicate you’ve moved past an admissions board’s first round of screening applicants. Generally, if you already chose schools you’re a good fit for based on candidacy strength (test scores, GPA, etc.), you’ll probably get multiple secondaries.

Not all applicants will receive secondary applications. Programs generally have a limited number of spots available and receive a

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How to Create Sizzling Secondary Applications

You’ve taken the MCAT, completed all the pre-reqs, and maybe shadowed a physician, done some research, and volunteered. Now it’s time to make sure you’re all in for the last legs of this long journey. In this series , we’ll discuss how you can continue to navigate your way to a med school acceptance by analyzing your profile, creating a strong med school application, writing stellar AMCAS and secondary essays, and nailing your interview.

After you submit your AMCAS application, if everything goes well, you’ll be asked to submit secondary applications. Each medical school requires different information.

The following tips will help you write these challenging essays :

1. Timing is critical.

The general rule is to complete each secondary application within two weeks of receiving it.

2. Prioritize schools.

If faced with more secondaries than you can handle , prioritize. Complete the secondaries from the schools you are most interested in attending and/or have the greatest chance of being offered an interview first.

3. Be thorough and do not rush.

The essays in your secondary application are as important as your personal essay, and in some cases, more important. Do not rush through them.

4. Research each school.

Before starting to write any essays, spend some time reviewing the website, the mission statement, and the curriculum of the medical school. (This is something you want to repeat again before interviewing.) Try to incorporate in your essays some of the information you learn so that you stress why you are a good match and what you can offer your target school . In essence you want to personalize each essay. Try to reinforce how your past experiences match the school’s mission statement or how your interests match their specialty offerings. Each school has a special focus (such as a unique curriculum, strong research base, a focus on the underserved or primary care). Think about what you have to offer that aligns well with their focus or mission and reinforce that in your essay.

5. Answer accurately.

Seems obvious, I know, but many applicants need the reminder: Answer the questions as they are written and not as you wish they were written. You may write a lovely essay about your shadowing stint at your local ER during high school, but if the question was about extracurricular activities in college, then you still haven’t gotten the job done right. This also means that if you’re trying to reuse stories in multiple applications, you need to read the questions very carefully and make sure you’re on target.

6. Give state school essays enough attention.

When completing an essay for your state school, stress why you want to go there just as you would any other school. Financial reasons and proximity to home are important reasons, but you still want to reinforce why you are a good match for the school.

7. Share additional information.

Each secondary application provides a place for you to show a little more of yourself. Try to include information in your essays that you may not have been able to incorporate into your AMCAS application. The secondary essays should complement, not duplicate, the AMCAS essay.

8. Edit effectively.

You don’t just want to tell your story; you want to tell your story well – this includes choosing the right topic, writing about your experiences with interesting and relevant details, and – last but not least – editing the essay so that it gleams . A successful secondary essay isn’t messy with typos and poor grammar; it’s neat, organized, and error-free. If English is not your first language – and even if it is – you will most definitely benefit from having another set of eyes (or more) look over your essay to ensure that it’s top-notch and ready for send-off.

Again this is the final piece of information that will be considered by admission committees prior to interview offers, so put time into each and make sure you customize them for each school.

Related Resources:

•  Secondary Strategy: Why Do You Want To Go Here? •  Applying to Med School: How to Juggle Secondaries •  How to Write Succinct Secondary Essays

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Fyodor d. urnov: pioneering gene editing for medical breakthroughs.

A trailblazer in the field of therapeutic genome editing, Fyodor D. Urnov’s research focuses on developing medicines for devastating genetic diseases.

Fyodor D. Urnov ‘96 Ph.D. is Professor of Molecular Therapeutics in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California, Berkeley and Director of Technology and Translation at the Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI). He co-developed the toolbox for human genome and epigenome editing, co-named the term “genome editing”, and was on the team to advance the first-in-human applications in a clinic. 

Urnov also helped identify the genome editing target for the first medicine approved to treat sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. A major goal for the field of genome editing and a key focus of Urnov's work is expanding access to CRISPR therapies (which modify genomes) for genetic diseases to those most in need. 

He will receive the Horace Mann Medal at the Doctoral Ceremony during Brown University’s Commencement weekend. 

Prior to attending Brown, Urnov completed his undergraduate studies in biology at Moscow State University in Russia. He then joined the Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry (MCB) department at Brown where he earned his doctoral degree. His dissertation work focused on the DNA structure and chromatin dynamics of one of the scarce origins of replication that are thoroughly understood, initiating DNA synthesis prior to cellular division. He worked in the lab of Susan Gerbi, the George Eggleston Professor of Biochemistry and founding chair of the MCB department. 

Urnov credits his pioneering work on gene editing to the doctoral training he received at Brown. Urnov then completed postdoctoral training at the National Institutes of Health before joining Sangamo BioSciences, a biotech firm in the San Francisco bay area as a Senior Scientist and Team Leader. 

At every stage of his career, Urnov’s exceptional work has been marked by medical breakthroughs and awards. One of the most groundbreaking biological advancements in recent years involves the ability to safely and precisely modify DNA sequences within genes - gene editing. This innovation began with the development of proteins designed to selectively bind to specific DNA sequences and enact targeted alterations. These proteins, known as "zinc-finger nucleases" or ZFNs, have paved the way for transformative research in genetic engineering.

In 2005 at Sangamo, Urnov spearheaded a pivotal study showcasing the efficacy of ZFNs to precisely target a disease-causing  sequence in the genome and correct it. The study was published in the journal Nature. The field of therapeutic genome editing, which Urnov co-named, was thus born. This paper marked the inaugural instance of mutation correction in human cells. The study demonstrated remarkably efficient repair (i.e. editing) of a mutated gene linked to severe combined immune deficiency, underscoring the potential of gene editing technology in addressing genetic disorders - potential that has recently started to be realized.

After this initial publication, interest in using gene editing technology exploded. Stuart Orkin, the David G. Nathan Distinguished Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and Investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute collaborated with Urnov to use gene editing to cure sickle cell disease (SCD) and beta-thalassemia (both inherited blood disorders), ushering in the first CRISPR gene editing clinical trial for a genetic disease, treating both SCD and thalassemia patients. In both of these inherited diseases, the gene for making beta-hemoglobin is disrupted. 

“Fyodor Urnov has been a visionary in the field of gene manipulation and editing, and is widely recognized both for his scientific contributions and his remarkable skill in communicating the work to other scientists and the public,” shares Orkin.

The outcome of the clinical trials have thus far been transformative for the around 100 patients involved; all have been symptom-free after gene editing. Based on these results the FDA has approved this approach as the first-ever gene-editing based medicine - a medicine for which a key foundation was the work Urnov did in collaboration with Orkin.

Urnov’s other collaborations at Sangamo led to the deployment of genome editing in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) for basic science and translational applications. Examples include applied gene editing to Down syndrome and in vivo therapeutics for Huntington’s disease and Alzheimer’s dementia.

In 2019 Urnov moved to the University of California, Berkeley, where he took on the challenge of building CRISPR Cures research and development teams for genetic diseases of the blood and the brain, genetic disorders of the immune system, radiation injury, cystic fibrosis, and neurological disorders. 

Urnov explains gene editing technology in a New York Times article from December of 2022.

“Gene editing relies on a molecular machine called CRISPR, which can be instructed to repair a mutation in a gene in nearly any organism, right where that “typo” occurs. Impressively versatile, potential applications for CRISPR range from basic science to agriculture and climate change. In medicine, CRISPR gene editing allows physicians to directly fix typos in the patients’ DNA. And so much substantive progress has been made in the field of genetic medicine that it’s clear scientists have now delivered on a remarkable dream: word-processor-like control over DNA.” 

As Urnov explains in this piece, a wealth of regulatory hurdles and healthcare economics challenges have, to date, prevented gene editing from making a greater impact. Urnov shares, “the invention of CRISPR gene editing gave us remarkable treatment powers, yet no one should do a victory lap. Scientists can rewrite a person’s DNA on demand. But now what? Unless things change dramatically, the millions of people CRISPR could save will never benefit from it. We must, and we can, build a world with CRISPR for all.”

An effort to bring us closer to that world is now the centerpiece of Urnov’s professional life. His work currently focuses on developing scalable, affordable platforms to engineer gene editing cures on-demand for severe disorders of childhood. Urnov directs a unique academia-industry partnership, the IGI-Danaher Beacon for CRISPR Cures, that is advancing to the clinic innovative treatments for inborn errors of immunity that cause severe diseases of infancy.

Urnov has made an impact at UC Berkeley and IGI beyond his research. As the Covid-19 pandemic commenced, he assumed the task of organizing resources to set up a nonprofit diagnostic clinical laboratory at IGI for swift testing of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The objective was to offer greater throughput, faster results, and enhanced accuracy compared to existing commercial options - and provide such testing for free to communities most in need. 

As described in Walter Isaacson’s best selling book, The Codebreaker , Urnov emerged as a pivotal figure in this initiative, playing a significant role in resource mobilization encompassing equipment, personnel, and funding - and ultimately providing over 500,000 free COVID tests to individuals in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities when for-profit testing laboratories failed at the task.

Not only is Urnov renowned in the field of gene editing, but his list of publications, teaching ability, and public speaking acumen is also exceptional. Urnov has authored more than 100 scientific publications and is an inventor on 87 published patents related to genome editing and targeted gene regulation technology. His 2005 Nature paper has been cited over 2000 times, and a subsequent paper he wrote for Nature Reviews Genetics has been cited over 2500 times. Many of his other papers have been cited over 1000 times.

“Fyodor is a world class researcher at the forefront of arguably the most exciting and important biomedical research advance in our lifetimes – genome editing – because he is perhaps the most engaging orator I have ever heard speak, because he is a scholar of truly extraordinary depth and breadth of knowledge in biomedicine, and because he is a dedicated and highly effective teacher and mentor,“ shares David Drubin, Ernette Comby Chair in Microbiology and a professor of Cell and Development in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at UC Berkeley.

Urnov is also known for being a dynamic public speaker and teacher and is much sought after. Urnov credits his experience as a graduate student instructor here at Brown for his interest in teaching, starting with watching faculty at Brown, including George Eggleston Professor of Biochemistry, Susan Gerbi and Professor of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry  Kenneth Miller, in his first stint as a graduate student instructor. 

Urnov’s awards, not surprisingly, are quite notable. As far back as his time at Brown he was selected for the Barry J. Rosen Memorial Award For High Achievement In Molecular Biology and the President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

In 2014 he was named as one of “The World’s Most Influential Scientific Minds” by Thomson Reuters and received a Fellows Award for Research Excellence from the National Institutes of Health.

Eastern Virginia Medical School Secondary Essays – EVMS Prompts and Tips

• Cracking Med School Admissions

The Eastern Virginia Medical School secondary application wants to ensure that you are a premed student who has abundant clinical experiences and have a track record of academic excellence. The Eastern Virginia Medical School secondary essays are not too long and the questions do not change year after year. The EVMS secondary is a great secondary to pre-write. Read below for more EMVS secondary application tips  to help you answer each question!

Our Cracking Med School Admissions team has had several students accepted and matriculate to EVMS. So, we know the school well and how to help our students stand out. Work with us through our medical school secondary essay editing packages to help you stand out on your EVMS secondaries and other medical school applications! If you have questions, feel free to c ontact us below!

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Eastern Virginia Medical School Secondary Application Questions: 2023 – 2024

• Briefly describe your exposure to medicine. (2,000 characters max)
• What do you think you will like best about being a physician? (2,000 characters max)
• What do you think you will like the least about being a physician? (2,000 characters max)
• Describe yourself and your medical career as you see it ten years from now. (2,000 characters max)
• Please indicate your reasons for applying to EVMS. (2,000 characters max)
• Optional:  EVMS is dedicated to inclusivity and supporting patients and students from diverse backgrounds. Feel free to share your personal experience or ties to communities from diverse backgrounds. Please explain in detail if you wish to respond. Some examples include but are not limited to race/ethnicity, culture, LGBTQ+, differently-abled/disabled, etc.

Tips to Answer EVMS Secondaries

Eastern Virginia Pre-Writing Guidance: Because this secondary does not change often, we encourage students to pre-write this secondary application! And, it’s a state school so prioritize submitting this secondary! Per the EVMS website , “Application materials are considered on a rolling basis, starting October 1 (one year before desired matriculation), and are considered until all positions are filled.”

• Download our   Cracking Med Secondary Essay Workbook and Examples .

EVMS Secondary Application Tip #1: We often get asked, “ How do you answer the question ‘Briefly describe your exposure to medicine?’ ” Many EVMS applicants will write a bullet point list about all their clinical experiences, including all their shadowing opportunities. Dr. Rizal’s and Dr. Mediratta’s goals are to make you stand out from the rest of the applicants. So, we suggest the following:

• An overall narrative arc about your journey and lessons learned through your clinical experiences
• A list of your clinical experiences, but write 2-3 sentences per clinical experience. Focus on what you learned and your reflections on how that clinical experience will make you be a better physician.

Contact us if you have questions about how to answer this EVMS secondary essay.

EVMS Secondary Application Tip #2: The Eastern Virginia Medical School secondary essays “ What do you think you will like best about being a physician? ” and “ What do you think you will like least about being a physician? ” don’t contain any tricks or special meaning. Don’t try to write the “right answer” on your EVMS secondaries. Instead, follow your heart and gut about what excites you most and what scares you most about medicine. The content in these essays should complement your personal statement on your AMCAS primary application. For example, if you wrote about teaching a patient about his health, you can talk about how you are excited to educate your patients as a future physician. 

EVMS Secondary Application Tip #3:  EVMS is a community-oriented school and they want to recruit medical students who are interested in serving the Virginia community in the future. It is important to note this in your EVMS secondaries. Additionally, make sure to read our blog post about How to Answer “Why This Medical School?” for tips on how to answer “Why EVMS?” 

EVMS Secondary Application Tip #4: The EVMS Admissions Committee favors students who have lived or had experiences in the state of Virginia. Write about your ties to communities in Virginia, including growing up in Virginia or currently living in Virginia or Washington D.C.! Additionally, give specific ways you want to be involved with the local Virginia community in your EVMS secondaries.  Many medical students at EVMS’ student body do residency in Virginia and pursue clinical practice in Virginia when they are attending doctors. 

EVMS Secondary Application Tip #5:  Include stories as much as possible. Ideally, you should write patient stories from your clinical experiences. For example, you can add stories for the following prompts:

• Briefly describe your exposure to medicine.
• What do you think you will like best about being a physician?
• What do you think you will like the least about being a physician?

EVMS Secondary Application Tip #5: Get our help to edit your EVMS secondaries. We can help you through our secondary essay packages.

[ Read more secondary essay tips:  New York Medical College , Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) , University of Virginia (UVA) , George Washington ]

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Eastern Virginia Medical School Secondary Application Questions: 2022 – 2023

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Eastern Virginia Medical School Secondary Application Questions: 2021 – 2022

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Secondary Essay Prompts for Allopathic Schools

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*Data collected from MSAR 2016-2017 and institution website. Disclaimer: The information on this page was shared by students and/or can be found on each medical school’s website. MedEdits does not guarantee it’s accuracy or authenticity.

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