Podcasts by Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A

Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A

The Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q

Further podcasts by Ryan Gray

Podcast on the topic Wissenschaft

All episodes

Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
163: Let's Talk CASPer from 2022-02-16T05:00

This premed has questions about CASPer and how it factors into your application.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
162: Military Medicine: A Different Path To Medicine from 2022-02-09T05:00

Today we talk to a student interested in military medicine. I share some of my story and she shares hers!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
161: Is Taking More Than Four Years to Graduate a Red Flag? from 2022-02-02T05:00

This student changed majors and needs another semester to graduate. Will med schools see this as a red flag?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
160: Pass/Fail Grades, What Do Med Schools Think? from 2022-01-26T05:00

This student is worried that their P/F grades will impact them getting into medical school, will it? Let's Ask Dr. Gray!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
159: Is Alcoholics Anonymous OK to Put As An Activity? from 2022-01-19T05:00

This inspiring premed is NINE years sober and AA has contributed to her pursuit of medicine. Is it too risky to note in her application?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
158: Health Issues Are Part of My Story—Should I Disclose Them? from 2022-01-12T05:00

This student is worried about disclosing health issues and whether it will prevent them from getting into med school. However, their health is a huge reason they chose medicine. Should they discuss...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
157: 17 Years Old & Lacking Some Experience - Can I Apply? from 2021-12-15T05:00

This prospective applicant is only 17- and is lacking clinical experience other than shadowing. Should she wait or can she explain it?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-157-17-years-old-lac...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
156: Is MCAT Test Anxiety Going to Keep Me From Med School? from 2021-12-08T05:00

This premed has been struggling with testing anxiety, and has done poorly on the MCAT because of it. Can he recover from both testing anxiety and a low score?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
155: She Had a Downward Trend—Can She Overcome It? from 2021-12-01T05:00

This premed had a downward trend in undergrad but is currently in a postbac program. Can she overcome her trend or does she need a SMP?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-155-she-had-a-downw...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
154: He Has an Average GPA—How Can He Stand Out? from 2021-11-24T05:00

Our student today has always been overwhelmed and unable to focus on his grades. How can he discuss his shortcomings and highlight his strengths on his application?
Links:https://medicalschoolh...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
153: She Had an Upward Trend, but Lost It. What Now? from 2021-11-17T05:00

Today on Ask Dr. Gray, our student has concerns about her GPA. While it's not low, the upward trend isn't all there. Let's talk about how she can recover.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
152: Can I Show Med Schools I've Improved During the App Cycle? from 2021-11-10T05:00

This premed scored a 521 on his MCAT and is at the top of his SMP class. Can he show schools he's improved during the application cycle or should he reapply?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/a...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
151: Live Premed Q&A on Instagram & TikTok from 2021-11-03T05:00

I'm on IG and TikTok Live today to answer all of your premed questions and talk about application timeline, for-profit medical schools, and more!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-151-live-...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
150: Impact or Skills: Which do Adcoms Really Care More About? from 2021-09-23T07:49

This nontrad premed is transitioning from a military career to become a physician. How should she share her experiences in a way that will resonate with adcoms?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
149: Why is My Practice MCAT Is Different From My Actual MCAT? from 2021-09-15T05:00

Our student today is trying to figure out why her practice MCAT scores are different than her actual MCAT. Let's dive in and get to the bottom of it. Join us!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
148: Do I Need a Postbac to Overcome An Inconsistent uGPA Trend? from 2021-09-08T01:00

Our premed today has a good uGPA, but her overall trend raises some red flags. Find out why I recommend taking additional coursework to demonstrate consistency.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
147: How Can I Recover From a Downward Trend in My GPA? from 2021-09-01T05:00

Today, we discuss how to recover from a downward trend in your GPA. Listen to find out why I think a postbac might be a good idea for this student.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-147-how...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
145: Should I Share My Love for Ortho in My Personal Statement? from 2021-08-18T05:00

You LOVE ortho, but should you discuss your interest orthopedics in your personal statement? Find out why not and what to do instead to craft a better PS.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
144: How Do You Show Schools You Don't Have Commitment Issues from 2021-08-11T05:00

Our coaching call today centers around a student who has bounced around several schools, majors and paths. How does she communicate she wants to be a doctor?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/a...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
146: Should I Retake a Poor MCAT During the Application Cycle? from 2021-08-05T05:00

He improved from a 488 to a 493 but still needs to improve. He's in the middle of applications. Should he take it in September or wait and reapply next year?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/a...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
143: How Do I Address a School Suspension Due to Military Duty? from 2021-07-14T05:00

After being called to Active Duty, this premed found herself facing 3 weeks of coursework and 5 finals within 24 hours. How should she address her suspension?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
142: Does Being a Family Caretaker Count as Clinical Experience? from 2021-07-07T05:00

Our student this week has spent hours taking care of family members as a caretaker. Would it count as clinical experience?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-142-does-being-a-family-caretake...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
141: When and How Should You Contact Medical Schools? from 2021-06-30T05:00

Wondering when is an appropriate time to contact medical schools? In this podcast, I answer this question and more!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-141-when-and-how-should-you-contact-med...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
140: Should I Be Concerned if My Gpa Trend Is Not Consistent? from 2021-06-23T05:00

Today's student is worried that her GPA isn't high enough in light of her background. But can she prove her academic ability despite her GPA inconsistency?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
139: Should I List Club Membership in the Activity Se from 2021-06-16T05:00

Many students participate in clubs during their premed journey. Is it something that should be included in the med school activity section? It depends! Listen.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
138: How You Should Calculate Your Overlapping Activity Hours from 2021-06-09T05:00

Our student today is worried that her GPA isn't high enough in light of being a overrepresented student. Will her GPA be viewed with her ethnicity as a factor?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
138: Will GPA Be Weighed More if I'm a Overrepresented Student? from 2021-06-09T05:00

Our student today is worried that her GPA isn't high enough in light of being a overrepresented student. Will her GPA be viewed with her ethnicity as a factor?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
137: How Do I Keep up my Confidence During the Premed Process? from 2021-06-02T05:00

This mom of five is trying to keep going despite all odds but sometimes lacks the confidence and motivation to keep going. How should she approach the bad days?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
136: Does Contact Tracing Count as Clinical Experience? from 2021-05-26T05:00

There are lots of new ways to get clinical experience, but how do you know which one counts for medical schools? Listen to this week's episode to find out!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
135: How Do I Fix My Low GPA When I Have Lots of Credits? from 2021-05-19T05:00

Today's student has been dealing with family/personal issues. Even with an upward trend, her GPA of 2.5 will only get her a rejection. What should she do now?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
134: I Have 7 College Transcripts. What Will Med Schools Think? from 2021-05-12T05:00

With 7 college transcripts, she is worried that medical schools would look down on her app and GPA. However, that's not what she should have been worried about.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
133: I'm Waitlisted. Should I Prepare to Apply Next Cycle? from 2021-05-05T05:00

She is waitlisted at 5 schools but may not know if she will get a spot until up to maybe June. Should she retake her MCAT and prepare to apply again?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-133-i...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
132: Should I Introduce Myself to a Med School Before Applying? from 2021-04-28T05:00

Our caller today is applying this cycle and wants to know if they should contact medical schools to show interest before applying. If so, how should it be done?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
131: Submit App Early Without Spring Transcript or Delay? from 2021-04-21T05:00

She has prepared everything she needs to submit her application early, but now she can't get her spring grades until much later. Should she proceed without them?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.n...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
130: How to Be Yourself in a Med School Interview from 2021-04-14T05:00

Today, I answered this nontrad student's question on how to answer and connect with med school admissions. It's important to be human and not a robot. Listen!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
129: Navigating Through Advice and Info as a Premed Student from 2021-04-07T05:00

Today, our student is looking for clear answers after receiving different, conflicting pieces of advice from medical admissions, doctors, and advisors. Listen!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
128: How Will Admissions View Transferring Between Universities? from 2021-03-31T05:00

This student is wondering how med school admissions will view transfers between different schools. I also answer other questions about school lists, HPSP, etc.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
127: Can I Share My Passion for a Specific Specialty in My App? from 2021-03-24T05:00

This student has a passion for pediatrics. Would it be an issue to disclose it on the med school application? We also discussed sending LOR to specific schools.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
126: How Should I Categorize my Extracurricular Activities? from 2021-03-17T05:00

An important part of the med school application is the extracurricular activities section. How do you know which category your activities falls in? Listen to see
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.n...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
125: Why Didn't I Get Any Med School Acceptances This Cycle? from 2021-03-10T05:00

Today, I walked a student through her application to see why she hasn't gotten any med school invites. We also talked about shadowing parents, essays, and more!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
124: Should I Focus on my GPA or Getting a Good MCAT Score? from 2021-03-03T13:10

You are starting MCAT prep to take in the spring, but you have many classes and other responsibilities. Should you focus on your classes or squeeze in the MCAT?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
123: What Should I Do if I Don't Have Recent Shadowing Hours? from 2021-02-24T05:00

A new application cycle is on the horizon, but with the pandemic, many students don't have recent shadowing experience. Should they be worried?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-123-what-sh...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
122: Should I Write My Post-Bacc PS Like a Med School's PS? from 2021-02-17T05:00

Can the postbac personal statement be written like the medical school one? We also talk about formal vs. DIY postbacs and which one is better for your journey.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
121: Will Taking Prereqs at Community College Hurt My Chances? from 2021-02-10T05:00

Does taking your prereqs at a community college hurt your chances of getting into a more selective medical school? It depends. Listen to find out why.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-121-...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
120: Can a Master's at a Prestigious University Help My Low GPA? from 2021-02-03T05:00

This student has a low GPA but a solid upward trend at a community college. Should she apply this cycle or delay and complete a masters at a prestigious school?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.ne...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
119: Should I Talk About Serving Specific Communities in My PS? from 2021-01-27T05:00

In today's podcast, I talk about telling your story and the difference between "why do you want to be a physician" vs "what you want to do as a physician."
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
118: How to Talk About Your Life and Experiences as a Nontrad from 2021-01-20T05:00

How should you talk about your life and experiences as a nontrad? Be honest. Today, I talk about how to "stand out" as a nontrad by simply being true to yourself.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq....

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
117: How to Stand Out When Underrepresented in Medicine from 2021-01-13T05:00

How should someone who is underrepresented in medicine approach the medical school application process? My advice? Don't worry about standing out—be yourself!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
116: Do I Need to Retake C/D/F Classes to Get Into Med School? from 2021-01-06T13:30

Do you need to retake C/D/F classes from earlier in college? Listen to find out why you may not need to retake classes and what you should consider instead.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/ad...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
115: Can I Get Into Medical School if I Dropped Out of College? from 2020-12-30T05:00

Our caller today dropped out of college during her first semester. Now, she's finishing her degree and wants to know how to share her story with med schools.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/a...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
114: Do I Have Enough Clinical Experience as a Nontrad? from 2020-12-23T05:00

How do you find the time to get enough clinical and shadowing experience as a nontrad premed while balancing work, life, and school? Let's discuss!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
113: When Is It Appropriate to Apply Early Decision? from 2020-12-16T05:00

You have strong ties to a medical school, but should you apply early decision? Today, we talk about how to show your dream med school they're your #1 choice.
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/a...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
111: How to Move Forward After Bombing the MCAT from 2020-12-09T05:00

This student went all in on MCAT prep but her score didn't meet her expectations. What should she do next?
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-111-how-to-move-forward-after-bombing-the-mcat/ ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
110: How to Discuss Childhood Trauma in Your Personal Statement from 2020-12-01T15:10

In today's podcast, I share my top dos and don'ts for discussing childhood trauma and related events in your personal statement.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
109: How to Conquer Imposter Syndrome and Know You Belong from 2020-11-18T05:00

Imposter syndrome never really goes away, but today, I'll share a few ways you can turn anxiety into excitement.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
108: Do You Need a 3.0 to Apply to Med School? from 2020-11-11T05:00

Today we talk with a nontrad premed who has questions about in-person vs online classes, gaining volunteer experience as a nontrad, and GPA cutoffs. Join us!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
107: Eye-Opening Conversation About the Med School Personal Statement from 2020-11-10T09:45

This premed has a question about how to show resilience in your med school personal statement. Our conversation reveals a whole mindset shift he needs to make!
Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
106: Which Activities Should I Emphasize on My Med School App? from 2020-10-28T05:00

This nontrad has been out of school and working for a decade. She's done so many things, she's wondering what to highlight vs combine on her med school app!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
105: How do Med Schools View Nontrads With Limited Clinical Experience? from 2020-10-21T05:00

How do Medical Schools view nontraditional students with limited clinical experiences due to other commitments. Dr Gray discusses the importance of this topic.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
104: How Do I Know if I Am Competitive Enough to Get Into Med School? from 2020-10-14T05:00

How do you know if you are competitive amongst other applicants? Dr. Gray breaks down this students stats to help him know if he is 'good' enough?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
103: Can I Be a Stay-at-Home Mom and Get into Medical School? from 2020-10-07T05:00

Can you be a stay at home mom and still get into medical school? Will admissions committees look down upon you for staying at home as a mom?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
102: How to Write About an Academic Suspension and Cheating? from 2020-09-16T05:00

Do you have an institutional action? Maybe an academic suspension? Or a dismissal from a class or program? How do I write about this on my application?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
99: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Am I Too Old for Medical School? from 2020-08-05T19:00

You're NOT too old to go to medical school—and today, I'm explaining why. I'm also addressing HOW to tell your story on your application.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
98: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Is This GPA Really THAT Bad? from 2020-07-29T07:00

What is the GPA cut-off at most medical schools? And what can you do if you're worried about a low GPA number from your past holding back YOUR application?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
97: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: How to Approach the MD/PhD Essay? from 2020-07-22T05:00

Should your tone and writing style in the MD/PhD essay differ from the personal statement? Should your MD and MD/PhD personal statement be written differently?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
96: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Should I Retake My Old Prerequisites? from 2020-07-15T05:00

Our caller's prereq grades were pretty bad—but he's in a Special Master's Program doing much better now. So does he still need to retake old prerequisites?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
95: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Disclosing Mental Illness When Applying from 2020-07-08T05:00

Should you mention your history with mental health issues in your medical school application? Plus, what issues often affect disadvantaged students and URMs?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
94: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Advice Premeds With an Institutional Action from 2020-07-01T16:49

How do med schools view institutional actions like alcohol violations? Are they red flags that will get your app thrown out? How does it vary between schools?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
93: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: MD or MD/Phd—Which Is Right for You? from 2020-06-24T05:00

You're interested in a career that offers the best of both worlds—a few days a week seeing patients and a few days of research—but, is an MD/PhD the best option?Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/ad...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
93: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: MD or MD/Phd—Which Is Right for You? from 2020-06-24T05:00

You're interested in a career that offers the best of both worlds—a few days a week seeing patients and a few days of research—but, is an MD/PhD the best option?

Links:

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
93: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: MD or MD/Phd—Which Is Right for You? from 2020-06-24T05:00

You're interested in a career that offers the best of both worlds—a few days a week seeing patients and a few days of research—but, is an MD/PhD the best option?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
92: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Clarifying Clinical Experience—What Counts? from 2020-06-17T05:00

What counts as clinical experience? How many hours should you have when applying to med school? And is it okay to keep working a non-clinical job as a premed?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
91: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Will the Changes to the USMLE Affect COMLEX? from 2020-06-11T16:17

Will DO and international medical schools be adversely affected by the changes to USMLE Step 1? What does the NRMP survey data say? Listen and find out!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
90: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Should I Apply Early Decision to Med School? from 2020-05-28T04:04

When is it a good idea to apply early decision to med school? And what are you committing to when you check the "I'm interested in rural medicine" checkbox?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
89: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: When Should You Say"No"as a Premed from 2020-05-27T19:00

Today's premed is considering a gap year. She's only a sophomore! We talk about how important it is to be selective with extracurriculars and how to say no!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
88: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: I Submitted a Committee Letter, But Now... from 2020-05-13T12:00

Committee letters are typically comprised of several LORs from professors and faculty in a single packet. What do you do when you only receive a summary letter?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
87: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: How Are Gap Years Viewed by Med Schools? from 2020-05-06T12:00

Are you making the most of your gap year? We'll talk about how med schools view gap years (spoiler: they don't care), interview day experiences and more!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
86: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Her 3.4 GPA isn't the Problem! from 2020-04-29T12:00

Our caller today wants to know what she should focus on to enhance her med school application: GPA, MCAT prep, or clinical experience. I'll help her prioritize!

Links:

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
85: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Should I Push my Med School App Back a Year? from 2020-04-22T12:00

Is it worth rushing to submit your med school application late in the cycle, or should you wait a year while you strengthen your application? The data says...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
84: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Is it Bad to Take Prereqs in the Summer? from 2020-04-15T12:00

Time is a precious commodity when you're a nontraditional student like today's caller. How should you spend your time as a nontraditional premed?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
82: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Discussing Caregiving on the Med School App from 2020-04-08T19:00

In many cases, caregiving is an amazing way to gain clinical experience in a non-traditional setting. How should you talk about it on your med school application?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
83: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Writing About Obstacles in Your Application from 2020-04-08T12:00

If you've faced adversity on your path to med school, you aren't alone! Today, we'll talk about how to discuss obstacles in the med school application process.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
81: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: 8 Common Med School Application Mistakes from 2020-03-25T12:00

Not getting any medical school interview invites? Let's look at the 8 most common areas students make mistakes in their medical school application.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
80: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Masters vs Postbac to Raise Your Premed GPA from 2020-03-18T12:00

How do you decide between a special Master's program (SMP) and a postbac? Today, I share why I think a postbac is the better choice for this student.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
79: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: What Counts as an Upward Trend in Your GPA? from 2020-03-11T12:00

Today's caller had a mediocre GPA from her undergrad in business. Now, she's on the premed path taking prereqs and her GPA is improving—but is it enough?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
78: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: How to Deal With Imposter Syndrome from 2020-03-04T12:00

Everyone experiences imposter syndrome as a premed, medical student, and resident physician. Today, I share how to deal with these feelings on the premed path.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
77: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A - What's the Best Way to Prep for the MCAT? from 2020-02-26T19:00

Should you start thinking about the MCAT as you're still taking prerequisites? Today's caller is getting started early. Dr. Gray talks timelines and prep.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
76: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Mentioning Mental Illness in Applications from 2020-02-19T12:00

There are ways to touch upon mental illness in your application that are more discreet. But what if it's a major part of your story? Dr. Gray answers.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
75: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Postbac vs Masters to help a low GPA? from 2020-02-17T12:00

If you have a low GPA, first ask yourself why. Before picking between post-bac, masters, and SMP programs, be honest about where you need to improve.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
74: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: Giving Up on My Med School Dream from 2020-02-12T12:00

What do you do when a premed advisor recommends a drastic change of course? Should this caller call it quits on US MD and DO schools?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
73: Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A: How To Pull in the Reader from 2020-02-10T12:00

Help your reader inhabit those important "why medicine" moments with you. Show your experiences through anecdotes and appeal to their senses.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
72: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: I Have a Low GPA, Should I Do a Postbac? from 2020-02-05T12:00

What's the magic number for an MCAT score that will outshine your low GPA (spoiler: there is none), and when is it time to do a post-bac degree?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
71: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: MD vs DO Applications? from 2020-02-03T12:00

The AMCAS and AACOMAS are slightly different application services. Do you need to tailor your personal statement to each of them?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
70: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: What Can I Do to Boost My Apps During the Application Cycle? from 2020-01-29T12:00

Our caller is a working dad with a DIY postbac and tons of shadowing and bench work experience. What else can he do to elevate his application?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
69: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: Does Having a Nursing Background Hurt Me? from 2020-01-27T12:00

Do nursing courses count toward your medical school prerequisites, and is there any truth to low medical school acceptance rates for nurses?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
68: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: Non-traditional Routes to Medical School from 2020-01-22T12:00

Our question comes from an applicant who has taken a somewhat winding path during her premed career. We'll sort through grades, trends and more.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
67: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: Dual Bachelors, SMP, or Something Else? from 2020-01-20T12:00

Today's caller asks: if she has a long academic record, below average GPA, and an average sGPA, should she take a leap and apply?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
66: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A: Taking Classes At a Lot of Schools from 2020-01-15T12:00

Does it look bad to take classes at a slow place while working, or to take them at different institutions? What if you are a nontraditional student?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
65: Ask Dr. Gray Q&A: How Do Canadians Stand out for US Schools? from 2020-01-13T12:00

Just as in any other application, try to stand out with your personal statement and your credentials. Your nationality be more relevant as you select your schools!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
64: Ask Dr. Gray Premed Q&A About Disciplinary Actions from 2020-01-08T12:00

Our first live Q&A session! today's question involves whether and how to talk about academic probation in AMCAS and the rest of your application.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
63: If I've Shadowed PAs, Should I Include that in my Apps? from 2020-01-06T12:00

Should you include shadowing mid-levels as an activity on your applications? No, but here are some ideas for how to include them.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
62: Why Aren't There a lot of Osteopathic Physicians? from 2020-01-01T12:00

There are a lot more MD medican schools than there are DO schools. What accounts for the difference in numbers, and how does that affect you?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
61: Stop Worrying About Your Personal Statement Until This Point from 2019-12-30T12:00

What should you do, before you start worrying about what your personal statement says about you? Write, write, and write!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
60: What is an Appropriate Gift for a Physician you Shadow? from 2019-12-25T12:00

Shadowing is a valuable part of the premed process, but you don't need to gift the physician you followed! What can you do instead?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
59: How Should You Approach Certain Questions in Your Interview? from 2019-12-23T12:00

When you are asked a question on an interview, do not answer based on what the interviewer wants to hear. Just be you, and answer from the heart.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
58: How to Reduce Anxiety Around the Med School Interview from 2019-12-18T12:00

There's a lot on the line in a medical school interview. How do you practice for interviews and reduce your stress so that you can truly shine?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
57: What Are Some Differences Between AMCAS, AACOMAS, And TMDSAS? from 2019-12-16T12:00

Deciding where to apply for medical school involves different processes and results in different consequences. How do you sort through them all?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
56: How Many Medical School Should I Apply To? from 2019-12-12T12:00

Picking medical schools to apply to isn't a haphazard process! Here, we discuss the time requirements, costs and other considerations.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
55: Can I Take Med School Prereqs Online? from 2019-12-10T12:00

Many medical schools don't accept online courses, but is that true across the board? Here's what to consider before taking prereqs online.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
54: Should I Use (and Trust) School Chance Predictors? from 2019-12-06T12:00

What are medical school chance predictors? Can a web-based algorithm actually tell you anything your character and your chances of getting in?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
53: Can I Do My Med School Prereqs at a Community College? from 2019-12-04T12:00

Community college is a practical choice for many students. Will premed courses taken at a CC hold as much weight as those taken at 4-year universities?

 

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
52: What is the Acceptance Rate to Medical School? from 2019-11-27T12:00

If you've applied to medical school, you have seen the annual aceptance rates to DO and MD schools. What does that tell you about your chances?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
51: How Important is my GPA to Get Into Medical School? from 2019-11-25T12:00

Your GPA gets you past the mysterious digital shredder of medical schools. Every class is important, and every grade counts. Tune in for more.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
50: What MCAT course do You Recommend? from 2019-10-23T12:00

What's the first thing you should look for in an MCAT test prep company? Hint: It's not the price! Here's some tips on finding quality test prep.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
49: How Should I Start Preparing for my Personal Statement? from 2019-10-21T12:00

Take the first step toward writing your personal statement by brainstorming. Make a mind map, recall your memories, and dig deep for your "why".

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
48: What is the Difference Between a Masters and a Postbac Program? from 2019-10-16T12:00

Session 48

Postbac, Masters, and SMP programs have pretty significant differences, from the degree conferred to financial aid eligibility, etc. Pick wisely!

If you haven’...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
47: What Are My Chances of Getting into an Allopathic Medical School? from 2019-10-09T12:00

Session 47

There are lots of moving parts to the medical school application. How do you know if you’ve got a good shot at admission to an MD program?

We record th...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
45: How Do I Know if Medicine is Right for Me? from 2018-02-07T10:00

Becoming a physician is long and it's expensive. It can wreck relationships, cause you to hate your job and more. How do you find out if it's right for you?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
44: Do I Need to Rewrite My Personal Statement if I Reapply? from 2018-02-05T10:00

If you're like the majority of premed students, you didn't get into medical school the first time you applied. Do you have to rewrite your personal statement?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
43: Am I Smart Enough for Medical School? from 2018-02-02T10:00

If you're early on in your premed journey, or well on your way, you have probably questioned if you are smart enough to be a doctor. Let's talk about that.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
42: Where do I Send Letters of Recommendations? from 2018-02-01T10:00

During the application process, you need to have letters of recommendations submitted to go along with your app. Let's talk about where to have those sent.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
41: What is a Letter of Intent and Should I Send One? from 2018-01-24T10:00

If you've been waitlisted at a med school sometimes letting them know that you will go to there school if accepted is something they need to hear. Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-41-what-is-a...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
40: When Should You Send Emails to Med School Admissions Offices? from 2018-01-23T10:00

Waiting for a rejection or acceptance to medical school is hard. After you've intereved at a medical school, when should you send an email to the adcome?Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-40-whe...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
39: What Proof Do You Need for EC Activities on Your Application? from 2018-01-19T10:00

When you are filling out your med school application, you need to fill in your extracurriculars. What should you be doing to keep track and prove your ECs?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
38: Do I need to Write a Different Essay for Each Application? from 2018-01-18T10:00

If you are applying to both MD and DO medical schools, should you write a different personal statement for each med school application service? Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-38-do-i-need-to...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
37: What Types of Physicians Should I Shadow? from 2018-01-17T10:00

Shadowing seems to be one of the hardest extracurriculars that premeds face. How many physicians should you shadow and what types of specialties too? Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-37-what-t...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
36: How do Premed Committee Letters Work? from 2018-01-16T10:00

The premed committee letter is supposed to help you with your application to med school. I think it does the opposite, but what is it? That's for today's show. Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
35: Does it Hurt to Take the MCAT Multiple Times? from 2018-01-15T10:00

The MCAT is one of the biggest hurdles you'll face as a premed. What happens if you have to take it multiple times? How will that affect your med school apps? Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
34: What Will Happen if I Can't Get a Transcript from a School? from 2018-01-11T10:00

For your AMCAS, AACOMAS, and TMDSAS applicatino to be verified, you need to turn in a transcript from every school. What happens if you can't get one? Links:https://medicalschoolhq.net/adg-34-what-...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
33: What are the Tiers of Medical Schools? from 2018-01-10T10:00

If you hear premed students talking about tiers of medical schools, turn and run away. Medical school is medical school. They all train you to be a physician.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
32: How Can I Stay Motivated All the Time Through the Premed Process? from 2018-01-09T10:00

Staying motivated all the time is an impossible feat for any premed student. Let's talk about how you can stay motivated as you go through this process.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
31: How Should I Ask a Doctor for a Letter of Recommendation? from 2018-01-08T10:00

Letters of recommendation are one of the few things for your application that you don't have complete control overe. Let's talk about how to ask for a LOR.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
30: What is a WF on the Transcript? Is it the Same as a W? from 2017-12-21T10:00

If you have a WF on your transcript, you may not understand the full implications of how that will affect your medical school application. It counts as an F!

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
29: Will Withdrawing From a Class Hurt My Med School Application? from 2017-12-20T10:00

Session 29 Withdrawing from a class can be an easy way to get out of a bad grade. How will that W on your transcript affect your medical school application? It's a common email I get from students...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
28: Can I Get Grades Removed From My Transcript To Improve My GPA? from 2017-12-19T10:00

Session 28 If you've taken classes previously and you've done poorly, some schools will give you options. For example, they will get rid of your old courses if you take a new set of classes. They ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
27: How Do You Choose Between Multiple Med School Acceptances? from 2017-12-11T23:15:39

Session 27 If you've been a great premed student, you likely will have the chance to choose between multiple acceptances. How should you do choose between schools? This is a terrible yet awesome p...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
26: MD vs DO - Should I Apply to Both MD and DO Schools? from 2017-12-08T10:00

Session 26 With three different application services, and two different physician degrees, students get overwhelmed with what to do. Should you apply to both DO and MD schools?A question came up r...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
25: Do I Have to Know Laws or Specific Medicine for the MMI? from 2017-12-06T10:00

Session 25 Many students worry about not knowing enough medical information or specific laws for the MMI or general interviews. We'll dig into that today. I was working with a student for a mock i...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
24: Should I Schedule a Second MCAT Date as a Backup? from 2017-12-05T10:00

You walk out of MCAT and don't think you've done well, should you schedule another test date, or should you wait for your score? That's what we cover today.

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
23: Can (or should) I work during medical school? from 2017-12-04T10:00

Session 23 Medical school is hard. You don't have to be a genius, but you have to work a lot. Does it leave time to work? You shouldn't work during medical school. In this episode, find out why. [...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
22: What are the Different Types of MMI Stations? from 2017-12-01T10:00

Session 22 What are the different types of MMI stations that you can encounter on your medical school interview day? The MMI stands for the Multiple Mini Interview. This format is has been spreadi...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
21: How Should I Use the MSAR When Looking at Med Schools? from 2017-11-30T10:00

Session 21 The https://apps.aamc.org/msar-ui/ (MSAR) is a helpful tool that the https://www.aamc.org/ (AAMC) offers students. Too many students use it in the wrong way though. How should you use it...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
20: Should I Talk About Being Respected as a Physician? from 2017-11-29T10:00

Session 20 There are many reasons to want to be a physician, but should"being respected"be one of those reasons that you talk about in your interviews or applications. I talked with a student earl...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
19: When Should I Register for the MCAT? from 2017-11-28T10:00

Session 19 The MCAT is arguably one of the most important pieces of your medical school application. Registering for it is one of the most important parts of the MCAT. So when should you register ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
18: How Should I Approach the"Blind"Med School Interview? from 2017-11-27T10:00

Session 18 There are several types of medical school interviews. One of them is the blind interview. How should you prepare for a blind med school interview? By the way, the episodes in this podca...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
17: What MCAT Score do I Need to Overcome my Low GPA? from 2017-11-24T10:00

Session 17 One of the most common questions I receive is"What MCAT score do I need if I have a low GPA?"Is there such a thing? That's what we talk about today. Students are under this assumption t...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
16: Three Questions Not to Ask Your Med School Interviewer from 2017-11-23T10:00

Session 16 Usually the end of your medical school interview the interviewer will ask if you have any questions for them. Today we'll talk last three questions you should never ask. [01:05]Ask Abou...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
15: Does it Matter How Fast I Turn Around My Secondary Essays? from 2017-11-22T10:00

After you submit your primary application, it's usually time to write your secondaries. Does it matter how fast you turn the secondaries around?

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
14: Why is the Med School Personal Statement so Important? from 2017-11-21T10:00

Session 14 The med school application essay, better known as the personal statement, is very important. It's a key factor in whether or not you'll get an interview invite. I personally think that ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
13: What are Some Good Gap Year Ideas? from 2017-11-20T22:42:22

Session 13 The gap year is a great opportunity to accomplish a lot as a premed. In today's episode we'll cover some great gap year ideas before medical school. So what should you do during a gap y...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
12: Should I Come Up With A Structure to Answer my Questions? from 2017-11-17T10:00

Session 12 The medical school interview is hard. Can you make it easier by having a structure to answer your questions? Or will that ultimately make it harder? Did you know our episodes have been ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
11: Should I Look Up Who My Interviewers Are Before I Go? from 2017-11-17T00:11:18

Session 11 Some medical schools will tell you who is interviewing you. How much research should you do on your interviewers before your medical school interview? The episodes in this podcast are r...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
10: Should I Meet with Admissions Committees Before I Apply? from 2017-11-15T10:00

Session 10 In this episode, I'm discussing whether or not you should reach out to the medical school admissions committees before you apply or while you're applying? Yes, you should.I'm not saying...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
9: What is My Goal on the Multiple Mini (Med School) Interview? from 2017-11-14T10:00

Session 9 What is the reason of the MMI? The core of the MMI is that it's a communications test. It's about how you communicate. It shows them whether you have good thought process behind what you ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
8: What if I Don't Have a Response to an Interview Question? from 2017-11-13T10:00

Session 8 While I'm doing mock interview with students, I often hear from students that they weren't prepared for the question or they haven't formulated the response for that question. As you go ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
7: Please, Don't Lie on Your Medical School Applications from 2017-11-10T10:00

Session 7 I have to tell you not to lie on your medical school application, but apparently I do. Let me do it one more time—don't lie on your med school application. I’m part of a prehealth adviso...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
6: Why is it Hard to Get Into Med School as an International Applicant? from 2017-11-09T10:00

Session 6 Applying to medical school as an international applicant can be a huge obstacle to overcome. But why is it so hard? That's what we will cover in today show. But first, did you know that ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
5: What Should I Do If I am Faced with a Hard MMI Scenario? from 2017-11-03T09:00

Session 5 The MMI scenario is written very specifically. It’s not meant to be easy. It’s sometimes there to make you think and put you in a hard spot. Don’t fight it. I was doing an MMI scenario w...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
4: Is Research Required to be Accepted to Med School? from 2017-11-02T09:00

Session 4 One of the most common questions I get is whether or not research is required to get into medical school. So, is research really"required"to get into medical school? No, it's not requir...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
3: How Much Does it Cost to Apply to Medical School? from 2017-11-01T09:00

Session 03 Applying to medical school is expensive. There’s the cost of applications, travel, accommodations, food, and a suit. Make sure that you plan accordingly. This is a question from Tyrell w...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
2: Why Should I be Careful on Social Media? from 2017-10-31T09:00

Session 02 Everybody is on social media now. That includes the admissions committees. Make sure that what the public can see won’t get you rejected. When you're applying to medical school, you're ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
1: What is the Best Major for Medical School? from 2017-10-30T09:00

Session 01 Do you know what the best major is for medical school? Do you have to major in biology, chemistry, or another science? Let's tackle it is in this episode. Somebody asked if it wasworth ...

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Ask Dr. Gray: Premed Q&A
Introduction to Ask Dr. Gray, Premed Q&A from 2017-10-25T23:13:21

If you're premed and you listen to music, stop right now and start listening to this! Ask Dr. Gray is a free podcast to help you navigate your premed path.

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