Question 1

1. Should I apply early if I’m on the fence about where I want to go?

Accepted Answer

This is a question that should be discussed with depth of thought, solid statistical reasoning, and clarity of purpose. Because many early programs require you to commit to attending that institution should you be accepted (Early Decision), you need to be more than just comfortable with attending that school – you need to be passionate about it. If you are truly conflicted about where to apply early, then look at options that provide you greater flexibility. Regardless, you should have a robust strategy for applying early to a few key schools, as it provides you greater opportunity to be seen early by colleges and be a stronger competitor in the applicant pool. There are two main different types of early applications – Early Action and Early Decision. The latter is a binding contract, whereas the former does not require students matriculate if they’re accepted. Because of the flexibility of Early Action programs, they regularly have lower acceptance rates than Early Decision programs. There are some schools that restrict their Early Action admissions, like Stanford, Princeton, Yale, etc. so be sure to check what type of early program your school offers. But yes – you should plan to apply to a few schools early, which gives you a statistical boost. Also, many schools have early deadlines to be considered for merit scholarships (Emory, USC, etc.). Don’t be rash with applying early, and don’t shoot so far above your profile that you’re wasting your early decision window. Find some schools that fall in a reach/target area that also are schools about which you’re deeply passionate. An admissions consultant can be instrumental here in deciphering your school list and providing you with robust choices that maximize your potential of securing entry into your desired schools.

Question 2

2. What if I’m undecided and don’t know what I want to do for my college major or career?

Accepted Answer

Many high school seniors are undecided about what they want to major in. Many are paralyzed by the idea of having to choose one pathway that ostensibly dictates their life’s future. Many aren’t ready to commit to one major because they have too many academic interests. Many haven’t fully considered the question and therefore feel unprepared to answer it. Regardless of your reason, this is a common trait among first-year applicants. Over 50% of students change their major in Arts & Sciences (humanities) schools, usually because they haven’t had the opportunity to study new academic fields like linguistics, anthropology, public policy, sociology, comparative religion, philosophy, etc. In high school, you’re generally tied to five tracks of classes – math, science, language arts, history, and foreign language. Therefore, most students espouse an interest in majoring in something they’ve already studied in high school. That means they’re missing a number of wonderful opportunities to pursue something that falls outside of that common track. It’s in your best interest to align your application with a major that allows you to demonstrate true academic and intellectual passion. You should be able to expound on that interest unfettered. Colleges are looking for students that go above and beyond, and also take their learning beyond the classroom. Spend time looking at the schools that most interest you, learn about their programs, and then identify your academic passions and be bold in demonstrating the depth of those passions and why those schools are perfect fits for you. That’s a much more compelling application than a flat, uninspired student who is undecided.

Question 3

3. What is the main difference between private and public universities?

Accepted Answer

Public colleges or universities are funded by local and state governments and usually offer a lower tuition rate, especially for students who are residents of the state where the college or university is located. Private colleges rely mostly on tuition, fees, and private sources for funding. Private donations can sometimes offer generous financial aid packages for students.

Question 4

4. What is the benefit of a two-year college?

Accepted Answer

Vocational-technical or community or junior college act as a gateway to earning a bachelor degree or offer a two-year associate's degree or certificates. Vocational colleges offer specialized training for a specific industry or career. Both tend to be affordable with relatively low tuition.

Question 5

5. What is a liberal arts college?

Accepted Answer

The goal of the liberal arts college is to impart broad and general knowledge and develop one’s intellectual capacities that transcends the professional landscape. Most liberal arts programs are private and offer four year programs that lead to a bachelor degree. They cover a vast area of academic majors such as English, linguistics to life sciences and mathematics. The majority of the faculty at these institutions are student-focused and teaching-oriented. The college/university decision is not only about getting into the best ranked one but rather going the best ranked one that fits you best. Each of the universities and colleges have specific aims and cultures which should resonate with you and your application should be tailored to demonstrate that you meet their aims and would be a definitive value-add to their campus community.

Medical School Admissions FAQ

Medical School Applicants constantly call and email us with a huge array of questions and here we have decided to list some of the most common questions or frequently asked questions about medical school admissions and present answers from our Former Admissions Officer Consultants.