Posted by JamesTyler7302 on November 4, 2015, 10:14 am
Good Morning!
For starters I would like to say that this is not another "what are my chances" posts. In this post I am simply seeking advice about what extracurriculars I could partake in that AA programs might be looking for in their applicants. Currently I have a summer and a semester's worth of research, shadowed at a hospital for the last 3 years (Anesthesiologists, Vascular surgeon, Ophthalmologist), Volunteer at both a hospital and a senior center also partake in greek life at my undergrad institution, tutor, and am also a member of the honors college (doubt that is relevant). Is there anything else I can do that would a) help me gain more experience or b) cater more towards what the AA programs might want to see? I know that this might seem like a petty post but I really have my heart on this program and any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you
Re: Advice
Posted by JamesTyler7302 on November 16, 2015, 2:22 pm, in reply to "Advice"
Thank you both for the advice and kind words it helps a lot. In regards to my personal statement ( I have multiple drafts) my listed reason for going into the medical field does not directly relate to the practice of anesthesia but my point of view is that every member of the care team in the OR (surgeons, anesthesiologist) is to credit for the life being saved even if they aren't directly operating on the patient. I just happen to be more interested in anesthesia than the surgical aspect. I am mentioning this because the overall theme of my personal statement is "wanting to save lives and prevent loss" (sounds basic but theres a story behind it). Does my personal statement have to directly relate to anesthesia? or is it ok if it's related to the practice of medicine overall?
Re: Advice
Posted by resort80 on November 16, 2015, 9:29 pm, in reply to "Re: Advice"
Sounds like you got a good handle on the personal statement too. To answer your question though, it definitely does not have to be centered around anesthesia. Mine was all about building relationships and communication with patients and its importance. Working in your anesthesia experience to your theme along with other experiences is a good approach.
Re: Advice
Posted by resort80 on November 15, 2015, 4:38 pm, in reply to "Advice"
I would echo what Psteaz said in that they really don't expect you to have anesthesia work experience. You experiences sound great and exactly what schools are looking for. My advice would be to start working on your personal statement and reflecting on all those experiences. All AA school want to see is growth and that you know how to work with patients. I am currently a first year AA student, so I just went through the process and this was my approach. This is kind of a side notes, but if your plans are to come straight from undergrad don't let people talk you out of doing that. I was able to do it and its a big payoff in terms of how studies are concerned. You will flow right into course work and not be as stressed out as some of your classmates.
Re: Advice
Posted by Psteaz on November 4, 2015, 9:34 pm, in reply to "Advice"
1) Have a good MCAT score 2) Have a good GPA 3) Interview well.
Those are honestly the most important factors. From there on get more Anesthesia shadowing hours and preferably do something that is medically related (I work as a medical scribe and also have my EMT certification). AA schools don't expect applicants to have any anesthesia work experience. Honestly it sounds like you know what you're doing!