Those considering applying to a health professions school often ask what they
need to do to get accepted or what the schools are seeking in candidates. I
have found that the checklist which follows offers me as an advisor an
opportunity to clearly and systematically explain what needs to be done by
candidates anywhere along the line of preparation, from those just starting
out to those getting ready to apply.
Some of the items on the checklist are not normally considered requirements,
but they are important in my mind. I invite other advisors and admissions
officers to comment on the checklist, add to it, subtract from it, agree with
it, disagree with it, etc. Do you have a checklist either in your head or on
paper that you use with your students and that you can share with other
advisors?
Peter S. Van Houten Director, Graduate School Services Career Center
University of California at Berkeley pvanhcal@uclink.berkeley.edu
Prior to my application to a health professions school, I have:
[Under the category of "Strong Academic Record"]
Demonstrated mastery of the basic science requirements
Demonstrated a broad and successful exposure to the humanities and social
sciences
Maintained or further developed my ability to read rapidly and understand
sophisticated material in the humanities and social sciences (especially
important for those taking a test like the MCAT)
Demonstrated that I am likely to be a lifelong learner, and have shown "mature
and independent scholarship", etc.
Established a relationship with at least three faculty members (or in the case
of fields like veterinary medicine or physical therapy, some professionals in
the field) who know me well enough to write me a comprehensive letter of
evaluation
[Under the category of "Firm and Clear Motivation"]
Demonstrated that I care deeply about my fellow human beings and their welfare
Demonstrated that I know what I am getting into, i.e., I understand the role
of a DDS, MD, DO, OD, RN, PharmD, DVM, etc. from direct personal contact
[Under the category of "Outstanding Personal Qualities"]
Demonstrated personal traits such as maturity, stability, integrity,
responsibility, trustworthiness, leadership, enthusiasm, etc.
Demonstrated that I have accomplished something worthwhile, and have skills
and abilities which will allow me to contribute to the life of my health
professions school and my intended profession
Demonstrated the ability to carry out a sophisticated conversation (interview)
with others considerably older than myself (faculty)
Demonstrated that I can use another language and deal effectively with those
of other cultural backgrounds