In the top ten ranking for research, WUSOM provides exciting opportunities for medical students to participate in research at the basic science or clinical levels. They are looking for students with strong ties to their communities—with excellent communication skills, a dedication to service, and well-rounded interests. The secondary application requests two optional shorts essays.
Washington University (St. Louis) 2013 Secondary Application Essay Questions:
- Two optional short essays are requested.
- Applicants should use single line spacing and 12 point size font.
- Responses should be constructed strategically to highlight an applicant’s strengths.
The following are required in the Secondary Application:
1. (optional) Do you have unique experiences or obstacles that you have overcome that were not covered in your application about which you would like to inform our Admissions Committee? (maximum 3000 characters including spaces)
Given this institution’s dedication to community service, I recommend sharing the details of any long-term volunteer work that you have not discussed in your personal statement. What was your role? How did you help the community? What was your connection to this group of people? Staying true to the prompt, have you overcome any significant challenges in your life to be successful? Learning a new language or finding resources to reach your goals can be good examples. Think broadly of your life experiences—were there difficulties in your life that you have overcome which other people may see as obstacles?
2. If you have already completed your education, if your college or graduate education was interrupted, or if you do not plan to be a full-time student during the current year, describe in chronological order your activities during the time(s) when you were not enrolled as a full-time student. (maximum 1800 characters including spaces)
Using an updated copy of your resume or CV, be comprehensive in your response. Capture the diversity of your activities and interests. Include all work experiences or volunteer activities. Highlight achievements. Review a copy of your transcript to be sure that you have covered all significant gaps in your education. If there were increases or decreases in your GPA before or after these breaks, explain.
| AMCAS Application Due | December 1, 2012 |
| Secondary Application | *December 31, 2012 (Strong recommendation: Submit within two weeks after receipt.) |
| Interviews Conducted | October 2012 to March 2013 |
| Rolling Admissions | November 2012 to April 15, 2013 |
| School Begins | Mid-August 2013 |
If you would like professional guidance with your Washington University School of Medicine application materials, please consider using Accepted’s Medical School Admissions Consulting and Editing Services, which include advising, editing, and interview coaching for the WUSOM application materials.
Alicia Nimonkar is an Accepted.com advisor and editor specializing in healthcare admissions. Prior to joining Accepted, Alicia worked for five years as Student Advisor at UC Davis’ postbac program where she both evaluated applications and advised students applying successfully to med school and related programs. Explore Accepted.com’s services to see how Alicia can help you achieve your professional dreams in healthcare.
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