Curious about the life and times of our spectacular admissions consultants? Please enjoy our newest blog series in which we interview the fabulous people who make up the Accepted.com staff. Next up is…Sheryl Neuman.
Accepted: Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where and what did you study as an undergrad? Do you hold any graduate degrees? Where do you currently live?
Sheryl: I was born and raised in Los Angeles. I studied Biology at UCLA and went to medical school there as well. I did an internal medicine residency at Cedars Sinai Medical Center followed by a combined General Medicine Fellowship/Preventive Medicine Residency at Cedars and at UCLA, which included getting an MPH at UCLA.
After my training, I worked at Cedars as the Associate Director and later the Director of the Employee Health Service. During that time I also headed the Med-Peds Residency program and was a faculty member in the Internal Medicine Department at Cedars.
Accepted: What’s your favorite book?
Sheryl: Currently one of my favorite books is Einstein, by Walter Isaacson. I wish I had read this book during my year of physics in college. Isaacson’s talent as a writer got me much more excited about physics than my courses ever did!
Accepted: How have your experiences as a med school student, doctor, and admissions committee member contributed to your talent as an admissions consultant?
Sheryl: Having been through all aspects of the process, I know firsthand what is expected. There is nothing that beats personal experience. As a physician myself, I know what to look for in an applicant.
Accepted: Can you talk about the road that led you to becoming an admissions consultant for Accepted?
Sheryl: I had not been doing clinical work for several years while raising my family, so when I was approached about the job, I thought it would be a great way to use my experience as a physician to help others applying to medical school. I found it to be very enjoyable.
Accepted: What’s your favorite thing about consulting?
Sheryl: I really enjoy taking a so-so personal statement and helping my clients turn it into something special. Our finished product tells a good story and showcases the applicant in the best possible way. Knowing that the applicant has a much better chance of having their application stand out makes me feel good. I also like helping with interview prep, especially since I have been on both sides of the interview before.
Accepted: What are your top 3 admissions tips?
Sheryl:
1. Start early so that you can get your application in at the earliest possible date to maximize your chances of acceptance.
2. Spend the time to get your personal statement sounding crisp and clear, with an interesting opening and a good flow.
3. Take the time to practice interview questions so you will not be caught off guard during the interview.
Learn more about Sheryl and how she can help you get accepted!
Related Resources:
• Interviewing with Impact: How to Make an Impression in Your Medical School Interviews
• Med School Admissions Consulting and Editing Services
• Navigating the Med School Maze
