What are schools looking for?

Schools are looking beyond your GPA and MCAT scores. Yes, it is important to have a strong GPA and MCAT scores, but those alone are not enough. Admissions will take a holistic review of your application. 

What does that mean?

Simply put, schools will look beyond the numbers. They are looking at the many ways you may contribute toward their school’s mission and core values. Admission committees are assessing your core competencies during their holistic review processes.

View LIST OF Core Competencies

In addition to the numbers, the admission committees are assessing the following:

• What experiences have you had that give insight into the path you have taken to arrive where you are?
• What personal and professional characteristics make you unique or distinguish you from the rest?
• What are your interpersonal skills that give insight into your ability to interact and communicate effectively?
• What demographic factors have shaped your experiences and attributes?
• Do you have a strong foundation and the intellectual skills to succeed in the challenging curriculum of medical school?

Therefore, it is imperative that you help the admission committees understand your motives for wanting to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, veterinary, or allied health and what specific qualities (e.g., professional, intellectual, and moral growth) you have that will make you a phenomenal doctor, dentist, veterinarian, or healthcare provider as well as a positive contributor to the field of medicine.

Contact Dr. Maria Cuevas if you want to complete a self-assessment.