submitting an additional essay when its not required? NEED YOUR HELP!

<p>So, I know that I definitely want to go into medicine, more specifically environmental medicine. While I am strong in science and my EC's definitely show a passion for the environment (including two summers of research on environmental factors of disease), I don't have any volunteering in the hospital or anything like that like many of the other applicants I see on CC. I hoped to convey my reasons behind pursuing a career in medicine in my supplemental essay, as my main essay is on coming from a low-income family and witnessing abuse and these life experiences (no matter how much it sucks) are things that have helped me become more resilient and motivated. Some programs do require a supplemental essay, but the University of Rochester program does not even give that option in their supplemental form. Should I submit my medicine essay along with my main essay anyway, or would the adcoms frown upon that? I would GREATLY appreciate ur help! :)</p>

<p>I actually visited Rochester just recently and had a discussion with and adcom about the lack of supplemental things that Rochester has to give a hook. He said that its ok to submit another essay in a mail like with your transcript or something. That said, I believe that Rochester's REMS supplement allows you to submit a medical essay.</p>

<p>Hmmm, the REMS supplement isn't available online though the common app, is it?</p>

<p>Why don't you get volunteering? You will be at disadvantage compare to others. You still have time. Are you applying to only one program?</p>

<p>i do have volunteering experience at a local nursing & rehab center (~40 hrs) and a breast cancer coalition (~40 hours). i have over 400 hrs in other areas, but none specifically in a HOSPITAL. Is that ok or would it still hurt me?</p>

<p>I am sorry, I missunderstood. This is plenty! The best of luck!</p>

<p>Thanks MiamiDAP :)
But, does anyone happen to know whether or not the REMS supplement is available through the common app?</p>

<p>Have you not looked on their website?</p>

<p>I did and all it refers to is the common app and the supplement through the common app which doesn't have a separate essay for the REMS essay. If I'm somehow missing it, if you could show me where it is I would greatly appreciate it.</p>

<p>I think its on the admissions page with add'l forms or something- at the bottom of the page. Print it out & send it in. Good Luck!</p>