<p>One of the programs I'm applying to has two essays.</p>
<p>The first one is straightforward. (Why do you want to be a doctor?)</p>
<p>The second one says: Please describe any experiences or circumstances which would impact your credentials for our program.</p>
<p>This one is optional.</p>
<p>So, are you supposed to answer it only if you've brought clean water to a rural district or cured cancer, or can anyone answer it with their mundane, average experiences?</p>
<p>Is it encouraged to write this kind of essay? It's only 1500 characters while the MAIN essay is 2500. (Yes, characters, not words!) </p>
<p>My first choice is Cincinnati. I REALLY want to go to this program. Do you think I can get in?</p>
<p>3.6 UW (STRONG upward trend- straight As junior year)
4.4 W
11 APs- all 5s so far (Bio, US, Lang, Euro, Calc) currently in Chem, Lit, Psych, Stats, Gov, and French, rest are Honors (except for a Consumer Economics & Investment Planning Class, plus some art electives my school requires like photo)
35 ACT
Asian female
National Merit Semifinalist (Cincinnati seems to really want to recruit these)
Medical ECs: Future Health Professionals Leadership Position, Hospital Internship, Volunteering about 175 hours at hospital, only about 50 hours shadowing, Northwestern Medical Explorers (you like, see cadavers and stuff) (no research- eek!)
Non-medical ECs: Dancing for 13 years, Service Club, Math Team (placed at state last year), 3 years swim team (but not varsity), National Honors Society, French National Honors Society. </p>
<p>I know my GPA and ECs aren't so hot, but I'm in love with their program, plus they're offering me a free ride because of NMSF! Do I have a fair shot?</p>