Thomas Jefferson Medical College (more recently known as Sidney Kimmel Medical College) is located in Philadelphia and prides itself on educating physicians who will provide integrated community healthcare. For example, one of their unique programs focuses on providing physicians for rural areas. The new curriculum integrates basic sciences with clinical experience and professional development and is uniquely suited to produce doctors who consider the social and ethical implications of their work in addition to the medical and scientific side. The school also has a large focus on altruism and individual development.
Thomas Jefferson’s 2016 Secondary Application Essay Question:
Thomas Jefferson does not have required questions, only a prompt asking if you have “any additional information that you would like to share.”
Because this is an optional essay, you should not repeat any information that is on your AMCAS. This section should be used either to a. highlight your unique connection to or interest in the school; b. explain something in your application that may be unclear; or c. add any information that was not included in the AMCAS.
To highlight your unique connection, you should write something that is very focused on details specific to why you would be a good fit for Thomas Jefferson. Do not write a general essay about yourself or the school, but do the research and investigate specific programs that would be a good fit for you. You should also mention if you have special ties to Jefferson or to the area. Do not use this essay to beg or make a plea; the essay should be direct and focused.
If you use the essay to clarify or add information, you should ensure the essay does not repeat the AMCAS or letters of recommendation, if you have access to them. This section can be used to provide updates on current employment or plans for the gap year, additional steps you’ve taken to improve your application, additional classes you have completed, new volunteer work you have undertaken or any other new information that was not previously discussed. Similarly, the essay should be specific, direct and focused.
***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***
If you would like professional guidance with your Thomas Jefferson Medical School application materials, check out Accepted’s Medical School Admissions Consulting and Editing Services, which include advising, editing, and interview coaching for Thomas Jefferson application materials.
Jessica Pishko graduated with a J.D. from Harvard Law School and received an M.F.A. from Columbia University. She spent two years guiding students through the medical school application process at Columbia’s Postbac Program and teaches writing at all levels. Want Jessica to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!
Related Resources:
• Secondary Application Strategies for Essays that Score Interviews
• Applying to Medical School Late in the Application Cycle
• School-Specific Med Secondary Essay Tips
