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Do I Need to Rewrite My Personal Statement if I Reapply?

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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[00:37] Re-Applicant’s Personal Statement

If you’re a reapplicant to medical school, you MUST rewrite your personal statement 100%. If you’re applying with the same personal statement and applying to the same school, they’d look at your personal statement from last time and this time (they could!). And when they look the same but you’re rejected last time. Reusing the same personal statement would raise the question of why. How do you know that your personal statement was what kept you out of medical school the first time? Or there wasn’t something in your personal statement that turned off the admissions committee.

If you’re reusing your personal statement, it shows that you’re not putting much effort into the application process. It shows that you’re not critically thinking about why you didn’t get into medical school the first time.

[02:28] Should Your Failure the First Time Be in Your Personal Statement?

In between applications, you’ve done some growth and maybe done some more shadowing and clinical experience. You might have had more powerful experiences that you’re going to want to write about in your personal statement to help make it stronger. You’ve changed as a person from failing to get into medical school to reapplying now. That change needs to potentially be part of your personal statement.

A lot of students will talk in their personal statements about failing to get into medical school and how was the biggest obstacle they had to overcome on their journey. But it’s not that a big of a red flag to include it in your personal statement.

Instead, your growth and accomplishments in between your last application and your current application should go into your personal statement. Your voice is going to change a bit because the experiences you’ve had have changed. You’ve gained new experiences.

[04:05] It’s a New Application!

So if you are reapplying, you must 100% write a new personal statement. This is the same thing with secondaries and letters of recommendation. It’s a new application. Rewrite your personal statement and don’t be lazy.

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Medical School Application

Med School Reapplicant Personal Statement: Turn 'No' to 'Yes'!

Medical school reapplicant personal statement examples are often necessary to help the thousands of applicants who face med school rejection every year. Being rejected is never easy, especially for something as important as medical school. However, both Homer Stryker and Charles R. Drew, who went on to make important contributions to medical science and now have medical schools in the US named after them, had to reapply to medical school, so if you were rejected the first time, you are in good company. This article will show you medical school reapplicant personal statement examples written specifically for programs that use specific prompts for reapplicants and give you more tips to improve your reapplication!

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Article Contents 10 min read

Med schools that ask for a medical school reapplicant personal statement.

Western Michigan University Homer Stryker School of Medicine

University of Colorado School of Medicine

Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans
Central Michigan University College of Medicine
University of Arizona Phoenix School of Medicine
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine

Want to know the reason why most people get rejected by med schools and learn how to avoid them? Watch this video:

Medical School Reapplicant Personal Statement Example #1

Essay Prompt

Describe the changes to your application from previous cycles - include academics, experiences, and/or personal attributes. (2000 characters maximum)

Throughout my previous application cycles, I have come to recognize the importance of self-reflection and growth. Taking the time to evaluate my application and seek guidance from pre-med advisors, they mentioned that although my academic profile and test scores were above-average, I lacked any significant extracurricular activities, or any real goals for the future aside from being a practicing physician.

Taking their advice, I made several intentional changes to enhance my candidacy for the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker School of Medicine. In this time, I discovered a newfound passion for woodworking and ceramics. Engaging in these non-academic pursuits taught me the value of patience, precision, and attention to detail.

Through the process of crafting intricate designs and working with various materials, I honed my motor skills and developed a heightened sense of creativity. These skills have not only broadened my horizons but have also provided me with a unique outlet for self-expression and personal growth. Furthermore, immersing myself in woodworking and ceramics has taught me the importance of adaptability and perseverance. In the face of challenges and setbacks, I learned to problem-solve, think critically, and refine my techniques.

I also took beginner classes in Arabic. This decision was motivated by my ambition to work with Medicines Sans Frontiers in the future, where I believe my language skills would be invaluable in providing healthcare to underserved populations. Engaging in Arabic language classes has been a humbling and rewarding experience.

It has allowed me to connect with diverse communities, deepen my understanding of different cultures, and broaden my perspective on healthcare disparities. I believe that these language skills will not only facilitate effective communication but also foster trust and rapport with patients from diverse backgrounds.

The changes I have made to my application reflect my commitment to personal growth and my unwavering dedication to becoming a compassionate and competent physician. I am excited to bring my newfound creativity, linguistic abilities, and academic achievements to the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker School of Medicine.

Please explain how you and your application has changed since your previous submission. (1500 characters maximum)

Fortunately, my rejection was the catalyst that made me finally seek out self-reflection and self-awareness, which I did through journaling. This practice has not only honed my writing skills but has also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. Through this process, I realized that the journey to becoming a doctor is not solely about personal accomplishments, but rather about the profound impact I can have on others' lives.

Motivated by this newfound awareness, I sought opportunities to contribute to my community and make a difference. Volunteering with a local non-profit organization, I dedicated myself to outreach efforts for unhoused individuals, providing them with access to essential medical services. This experience was both eye-opening and challenging, exposing me to the harsh realities faced by vulnerable populations. It reinforced my commitment to advocating for equitable healthcare and fueled my passion for serving marginalized communities.

Recognizing the importance of academic excellence, I retook the MCAT to improve my scores and enrolled in a post-baccalaureate program to enhance my GPA. Through self-reflection, journaling, volunteer work, and academic improvement, I am now equipped with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to pursuing a career in medicine. I am excited to bring these transformative experiences and my unwavering commitment to the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where I hope to contribute to the health and well-being of a diverse patient population.

Medical School Reapplicant Personal Statement Example #3

Louisiana State University School of Medicine

The LSU School of Medicine accepts re-applicants, but they do not need to respond to a specific prompt. Reapplicants to LSU need to complete a form outlining any improvements in their MCAT score , if they have earned any new degrees, and whether they have participated in any new extracurriculars for medical school . But, for this article, we will present this information in the form of a medical school reapplicant personal statement example.

Since my previous application, I have undertaken new coursework and engaged in extracurricular activities that have further enriched my academic and personal journey. Notably, I pursued a certificate in the biochemistry minor program at Tulane University, broadening my knowledge in this field of study.

One course that challenged me during this pursuit was "Advanced Topics in Biological Chemistry" at Tulane University. This rigorous course delved into complex biochemical concepts and required a comprehensive understanding of advanced laboratory techniques. While initially struggling with the intricate subject matter, I demonstrated resilience and determination by seeking additional resources, collaborating with peers, and seeking guidance from professors. Through perseverance and a strong work ethic, I not only overcame the obstacles but also passed the course with a satisfactory grade.

In addition to academic accomplishments, I actively engaged in extracurricular activities that expanded my perspectives and enhanced my skills. For instance, I participated in a volunteer program focused on mentoring underprivileged high school students in the Baton Rouge community, guiding them in their pursuit of higher education. This experience provided me with a profound sense of fulfillment and reinforced my commitment to serving and uplifting disadvantaged communities.

Moreover, I pursued continuous learning and professional development by earning certifications in advanced life support techniques, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). These certifications not only enriched my understanding of life-saving interventions but also highlighted my dedication to acquiring essential medical skills.

Through my renewed academic pursuits, extracurricular involvements, and commitment to professional growth, I am confident in my readiness to contribute to the Louisiana State University School of Medicine community. I look forward to further honing my skills, broadening my knowledge, and making a positive impact on the health and well-being of the diverse population served by the university and the surrounding community.

Central Michigan University School of Medicine

If you have applied to any medical school in previous cycles, what have you done since your last application to prepare yourself for a career in medicine? (500 words)

Since my previous application, I have embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth to better prepare myself for a career in medicine. One pivotal experience that transformed my perspective and broadened my horizons was a rural medicine internship at a clinic in rural Michigan.

Coming from an Ethiopian-American background in Saginaw, I had limited exposure to rural populations and their unique healthcare needs. Initially hesitant, I decided to embrace this opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself. The admissions officer from another medical school provided valuable feedback that I had few service commitments and too much focus on academic excellence. This insight inspired me to seek experiences that would deepen my understanding of diverse communities and the healthcare disparities they face.

I went to Iron Mountain, Michigan, which has a population of about 7,500. While, I was well-received, I encountered the challenge of building trust and rapport with patients who initially had reservations about opening up to a newcomer like me. Recognizing the importance of connection and understanding in healthcare, I sought creative ways to engage with the community and establish meaningful relationships.

One strategy that proved effective was tapping into the local passion for sports, particularly football. I discovered that the Iron Mountain Mountaineers are an integral part of the community. Recognizing the power of shared interests, I eagerly embraced conversations about football with patients, asking about their favorite teams, memorable games, and local football traditions.

These discussions served as a bridge, allowing patients to feel more comfortable and enabling me to delve into their healthcare concerns. As we talked about local sports teams, community events, and the excitement surrounding upcoming football games, a sense of camaraderie emerged. Patients began sharing their experiences, challenges, and personal stories with me, fostering a deeper connection that transcended the clinical setting.

Listening to the stories and struggles of the residents, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the unique challenges they face in accessing quality healthcare. Through this experience, I learned the importance of cultural competence, empathy, and adaptability in delivering patient-centered care. I developed a greater understanding of the social determinants of health and the need to address healthcare disparities, especially in rural communities. It sparked a passion within me to serve these populations and contribute to improving their access to healthcare resources.

Through introspection and continuous growth, I am now equipped with a stronger foundation in the humanistic aspects of medicine. I am committed to leveraging my unique cultural background, experiences, and newfound perspectives to provide compassionate and equitable care to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

As I apply to Central Michigan University School of Medicine, I am confident that my journey of personal and professional development has prepared me to contribute meaningfully to their mission of serving the healthcare needs of underserved communities. I am eager to continue expanding my knowledge, embracing new challenges, and working collaboratively to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and the community at large.

Are you not getting medical school interview invites? Check this out:

Medical School Reapplicant Personal Statement Example #5

University of Arizona College of Medicine

For re-applicants, 1000 characters to explain how you are a stronger applicant this cycle.

As a re-applicant to the University of Arizona College of Medicine, I am a stronger candidate this cycle for several notable reasons. I had the privilege of volunteering with No More Deaths, a prominent organization in Arizona dedicated to providing humanitarian aid and search and rescue operations for migrants in distress. Working alongside dedicated professionals, I witnessed firsthand the impact of social determinants of health and the need for equitable access to healthcare for all individuals.

I also enrolled in a biochemistry pre-med class, specifically BIOCH 421: Advanced Biochemistry. This course delved into the intricacies of molecular interactions, enzymatic kinetics, and metabolic pathways. Through hands-on laboratory experiments and in-depth discussions, I gained a better understanding of the biochemical basis of life and its implications in human health and disease. It also gave me a more solid foundation in biochemistry, and an overall more comprehensive scientific perspective.

University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Medicine

Have you previously applied to the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine? If yes, please provide the Admissions Committee with a brief application history (including when you first applied and the number of application attempts). Please describe in detail the ways in which this application is superior to your previous application(s). (Maximum 3000 characters)

As I reapply to the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, I acknowledge that my previous applications fell short due to poorly-written essays. Writing has never been my natural strength, but I have taken significant steps to address this challenge.

Recognizing the importance of effective communication in the medical field, I enrolled in a writing-intensive course at the University of Missouri-Columbia, MFST 322: Media Writing. This course honed my skills in crafting coherent and persuasive written content. Through rigorous assignments and constructive feedback, I developed a better grasp of structuring arguments and conveying ideas concisely.

Since then, I have continued to refine my writing abilities. Notably, I had the privilege of having a blog post published on the UMKC student blog website, 'The RooWriter’. This opportunity allowed me to express my thoughts on pertinent topics in healthcare, fostering my growth as a writer and demonstrating my commitment to effective communication within the medical community.

By acknowledging my weaknesses and actively seeking opportunities for improvement, I have gained valuable insights into the art of writing. I am determined to utilize these skills to express my genuine passion for medicine, my commitment to serving others, and my unique experiences that have shaped my journey towards becoming a healthcare professional.

I am grateful for the chance to reapply to UMKC School of Medicine, and I am confident that my enhanced writing abilities, along with my unwavering dedication and academic achievements, make me a stronger candidate this time around.

These medical school reapplicant personal statement examples are only a guide intended for you to craft your own medical school personal statement , but you can also use them as examples of what to do to improve other parts of your application, such as medical school secondary essays and medical school letter of intent . You can see from the examples that a wide variety of activities and hobbies are as important to have as completing academic course or performing a service commitment. Volunteer work is another common feature of medical school reapplicant personal statement examples, as many medical schools mandate their students participate in volunteer work even after they are admitted.

Yes, according to some medical school requirements , if you are a re-applicant, whether to the same school or a new one, some programs do make re-applicants write a specific medical school reapplicant personal statement and only this one. They do not allow the resubmission of old statements. If you are reapplying to a medical school, the point is to show what has changed about your application so your old statements no longer apply to who you are as a candidate now.

Many medical schools make clear what they expect to read in a medical school reapplicant personal statement, namely, what a candidate has changed or improved about themselves that was lacking in their first medical school application . The changes made could range from improving your coursework or doing more volunteer work.

The main difference is a medical school reapplicant personal statement should address the changes you have undergone since you last applied to demonstrate that you are ready to take on the commitment of being a medical student. All medical schools typically ask this of re-applicants so at least you know what to write when you are writing the statement.

Every school has its own word limits but the medical school reapplicant personal statement can range from between 1000 to 3000 characters.

You should not repeat anything you mentioned in your original personal statement. You should focus mostly on what you have changed about yourself and how you have increased your suitability for the program, as nearly all medical school ask the same thing of re-applicants.

Schools ask different questions because re-applicants are a unique demographic in the world of medical school applicants, similar to non-traditional medical school applicants . Re-applicants face the extra burden of having to improve their application significantly, while first-timers with a strong application only have to apply once.

Yes, many medical schools in the US and Canada regularly admit re-applicants who were unsuccessful either at the same school or another.

You should only re-apply if you have made the necessary changes or improvements to your application, be it through writing better essays, improving your grades or MCAT scores, or doing more shadowing hours for medical school . Many experts say that you should at least wait a year before undergoing the process again so you can gain a better understanding of your application’s strengths and weaknesses.