Express yourself — imperfections and all

Academic records matter. But so do essays.

Written work is the best way for an admissions representative to get a better understanding of the individual in front of them.

“I often say the best essay is one that shows you understand who you are, what your place in the world is becoming and what’s important to you,” says Gay.

“I want to see that you are a person of depth and complexity who looks at the world and thinks about what you can do to make it better.”

That’s why such reflection — Michigan requires three secondary essays beyond AMCAS’s required universal written prompt — ought to demonstrate growth or confirmation tied in some way to the candidate’s career choice.

Past examples, Teener says, include stories of atypical family hardships, the balancing act between schoolwork and Division I sports, and a challenging research or professional experience that presented a learning opportunity.

What candidates shouldn’t fear: detailing a moment of weakness or even failure.

“I’ll actually be worried when everything’s perfect,” says Gay. “I don’t believe that there are people out there so extraordinary they’ve never struggled.”

After all, struggles make stronger students — and doctors. Physicians face life-or-death consequences every day, so learning to embrace self-doubt or difficult choices “should not start on the first day of medical school,” Gay says.