How to Write a Medical School Update Letter
Writing a medical school update letter is an essential part of the application process for aspiring medical students. This letter serves as an opportunity to provide the admissions committee with an overview of your progress, achievements, and experiences since your initial application. To ensure that your letter effectively highlights your strengths and addresses any concerns, follow these guidelines on how to write a medical school update letter.
1. Start with a Catchy Introduction
Begin your letter with a brief introduction that captures the reader’s attention. Clearly state your purpose for writing the update letter and mention the medical school you are applying to. For example, “Dear Admissions Committee, I am writing to provide you with an update on my application to [Medical School Name].”
2. Provide a Brief Background
In the next paragraph, offer a brief overview of your background and any significant changes since your initial application. Include information such as your current position, any new experiences, or changes in your academic or extracurricular activities. This will help the admissions committee understand your progress and growth.
3. Highlight Your Achievements
In this section, focus on your achievements and accomplishments since your initial application. Mention any new publications, research projects, clinical experiences, or volunteer work that demonstrate your commitment to medicine. Be specific about the roles you played and the outcomes of your efforts. For instance, “I have been involved in a research project on [topic] under the supervision of Dr. [Advisor’s Name], where I have contributed to [specific contributions].”
4. Address Any Concerns
If there were any concerns raised in your initial application, such as a low GPA or a gap in your academic or clinical experience, take this opportunity to address them. Explain the circumstances surrounding the issue and provide evidence of your efforts to overcome any challenges. For example, “I had a challenging semester during my undergraduate studies due to personal reasons, which affected my GPA. Since then, I have taken proactive steps to improve my academic performance, including attending tutoring sessions and seeking guidance from professors.”
5. Emphasize Your Commitment to Medicine
Conclude your letter by reiterating your passion for medicine and your dedication to becoming a healthcare professional. Highlight any specific reasons why you are drawn to the field and how your experiences have further solidified your commitment. For instance, “My experiences in clinical rotations and volunteer work have deepened my passion for medicine, and I am eager to contribute to the healthcare field as a [desired specialty].”
6. Proofread and Format
Before submitting your medical school update letter, ensure that it is free of grammatical errors and well-formatted. Proofread the letter multiple times and consider having someone else review it for clarity and effectiveness. Follow the medical school’s guidelines for formatting, including font size, margins, and spacing.
By following these guidelines, you can write a compelling medical school update letter that showcases your strengths, addresses any concerns, and highlights your commitment to a career in medicine. Good luck with your application!
