Home › View all posts by Michelle Finkel MD › Page 193
Blog Archives

The Scramble

Posted on by by

The Scramble starts this year on Tuesday, March 17 at noon EST. The Scramble represents the two-day period, ending when Match results are published on March 19 at noon EST, in which unmatched applicants and unfilled programs “find each other.” During the Scramble, unmatched candidates can send up to thirty applications to ACGME-accredited programs to which they have not applied previously and up to fifteen to those to which they have applied.

Here are two links to more detailed descriptions of the Scramble process: The ERAS Preparing for the Scramble page and an on-line document called Post-Match Scramble Information for ERAS 2009 IMG Participants .

There are companies that will fax applicants’ materials to unfilled programs. If you think you may need to participate in the Scramble, I recommend researching the quality and professionalism of those companies now – prior to the chaos of the Scramble period.

Although I can assist candidates who want to enhance their written materials for the Scramble, I do not offer services to fax applicants’ paperwork to unfilled programs. If you think you may need to participate in the Scramble and need to improve your written materials, please contact me right away: www.InsiderMedicalAdmissions.com .

Tags:

Post Baccalaureate Premedical Programs

Posted on by by

For those considering an application to post baccalaureate premedical programs, I’d recommend the AAMC searchable database. The search options are comprehensive, including degree type and special program focus.

With regard to program focus, it’s important to consider the courses you’ve completed before applying to a post baccalaureate program because some are intended to offer science curriculum to those who have not had it, while others act as academic-record enhancers. Along those lines, remember that not all courses in a program may be classified as BCPM (biology, chemistry, physics and math) by AMCAS so ensure you review a post bacc program’s classes and their classification before applying.

Most post baccalaureate programs require an updated resume and essay. I’ve had experience editing written materials for post bacc applicants and am happy to help more candidates: InsiderMedicalAdmissions.com .

Tags:

Thank you notes: Goofy but gracious

Posted on by by

My feeling about post-interview thank you notes is that they can’t hurt. In theory it seems a little funny that a candidate would thank a faculty member in writing for an obligatory interview. But when I was interviewing candidates at Harvard, it really was nice to receive a note from an applicant.

My suggestions regarding thank you notes:

1. Hand write – no emails.
2. Send the note in a timely manner (the next day).
3. Keep it brief.
4. If there was something particularly noteworthy about the interview (a common interest) mention it.
5. Be formal in your tone.

Good luck,
Michelle
www.InsiderMedicalAdmissions.com

Tags:

Away rotations

Posted on by by

Some medical schools are currently requiring their students to plan their spring and summer rotations. The question I am asked is what my thoughts are on the utility of away rotations. Here we go:

1. They are either really good or really bad. Never in between. If you think you are going to shine then consider being away. If you are just revving up then don’t go. The last thing you want is to spend a month away only to have the institution rule you out early. (If you have a strong application that is even more reason not to go away.)
2. Consider the financial cost. Unless you have free housing, being away can get very expensive.

I have a few clients who are strategically contacting me early – now during their third years – for strategy sessions. It’s a good idea to get professional advice now and not be blindsided later about weaknesses you could have improved.

Tags:

Early Bird Special

Posted on by by

I’m using this blog entry to alert my blog readers that effective February 13 at noon PST, I will be implementing a price increase in some editing services. In gratitude for your blog reading patronage, I am alerting you as a courtesy to allow you or any friends you wish to refer the opportunity to purchase services at the current “Early Bird” rates. Please see my payment page for details regarding the changes.

My pricing reflects my commitment as an experienced admissions officer to helping my clients get ahead. Every applicant gets my personal attention. Every edit is done solely by me. With my services my clients can feel confident that they get what they pay for.

Thank you! Michelle

Tags:

About Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Michelle Finkel

Dr. Finkel is a graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Medical School. On completing her residency at Harvard, she was asked to stay on as faculty at Harvard Medical School and spent five years teaching at the world-renowned Massachusetts General Hospital. She was appointed to the Assistant Residency Director position for the Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency where she reviewed countless applications, personal statements and resumes. Read more

Receive FREE Insider Medical Admissions Tips.

Sign Up

Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on The Visible Voices podcast: 

 

Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the White Coat Investor podcast:

Listen to Dr. Finkel’s interview on the FeminEm podcast: