MeGA | BS/MD Admissions​

1. Why are you specifically interested in a combined BS/MD program rather than pursuing traditional undergraduate and medical school paths separately? Example: "I'm really drawn to the combined BS/MD program because it feels like the perfect fit for my journey toward becoming a doctor. Back in high school, I spent a lot of time volunteering at our local hospital, and those experiences showed me just how much I love being in a medical environment. Going through a BS/MD program means I can dive straight into my passion for medicine from day one, which is super exciting to me!"

2. How do you envision integrating your undergraduate studies with your medical education in a combined program? Example: "I've thought a lot about this! My plan is to dive deep into both the science side of things with majors in Biology and Medical Humanities. I really believe that understanding the human aspect of medicine is just as crucial as knowing the science behind it. By mixing in courses on ethics, sociology, and healthcare policy alongside my medical studies, I hope to become a doctor who sees the bigger picture and can connect with patients on a deeper level."

3. Can you discuss a challenging ethical dilemma you encountered and how you resolved it? How do you think your approach to ethical issues aligns with the values of the medical profession? Example: "One time during my internship at a clinic, I faced a tough situation where a patient's family wanted to keep some medical details from the patient due to cultural beliefs. It was a real test of my values! After talking it through with my supervisor and doing some research, I ended up having a heartfelt conversation with the family. We found a middle ground that respected their beliefs while also making sure the patient had all the info they needed. It showed me how important it is to balance respect for different perspectives with the principles of patient-centered care."

4. In what ways have you demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills, and how do you anticipate applying these skills in a medical context? Example: "Being the captain of my school's soccer team taught me so much about leading and working as a team. From rallying everyone before a big game to helping out teammates who were struggling, it was all about communication and support. I know those skills are going to come in handy in the medical field, whether I'm collaborating with other healthcare professionals or leading initiatives to improve community health. It's all about making sure everyone feels heard and valued!"

5. Describe a healthcare-related experience or exposure that significantly influenced your decision to pursue a career in medicine. Example: "One experience that really sticks with me is a medical mission trip I went on to Guatemala. Seeing the impact of healthcare in underserved communities was life-changing. There was this one moment where I got to help out with basic healthcare for a young child who wouldn't have had access otherwise. It hit me hard how much of a difference I could make as a doctor, especially for those who need it most. That trip solidified my passion for medicine and my commitment to making healthcare more accessible for everyone."

6. How do you plan to balance the demands of rigorous academic coursework with extracurricular activities and personal commitments in a combined program? Example: "In high school, I balanced a heavy course load with varsity sports, part-time work, and volunteering. One example of this was during my senior year when I was taking AP classes, captaining the debate team, and working part-time at a local animal shelter. To manage my time effectively, I created detailed schedules and prioritized tasks based on deadlines and importance. I plan to apply the same organizational skills and time management strategies to balance the demands of rigorous academic coursework in a combined program with extracurricular activities and personal commitments."

7. Can you provide examples of your resilience and adaptability in the face of academic or personal challenges? How do you plan to navigate the intensity of medical training? Example: "During my sophomore year of college, I faced a significant personal challenge when my father fell ill and required extensive medical care. Balancing caregiving responsibilities with coursework was incredibly challenging, but I learned to adapt quickly and prioritize effectively. Despite the adversity, I maintained a strong academic performance and continued to pursue my passion for medicine through volunteering at a local clinic. This experience taught me resilience and adaptability, skills that I believe will be invaluable during the intensity of medical training."

8. What unique perspectives or experiences do you bring to the medical field, and how do you believe they will contribute to the diversity of perspectives within your future medical school cohort? Example: "Growing up in a multicultural household and being fluent in multiple languages has given me a unique perspective on healthcare disparities and cultural competency. For instance, witnessing my grandparents navigate the healthcare system with limited English proficiency highlighted the importance of accessible and culturally sensitive care. I believe my experiences will contribute to the diversity of perspectives within my future medical school cohort by fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse needs of patients from different backgrounds."

9. Discuss a healthcare issue or topic that you are passionate about and explain why it is important for future physicians to address. Example: "I am passionate about mental health advocacy, particularly destigmatizing mental illness within marginalized communities. During my undergraduate studies, I conducted research on the impact of cultural beliefs on mental health help-seeking behaviors. It became evident that cultural stigma often prevents individuals from seeking timely and appropriate mental health care. As future physicians, it is crucial for us to address mental health stigma and advocate for culturally competent mental health services to ensure equitable access to care for all individuals."

10. How do you plan to maintain your motivation and passion for medicine throughout the duration of the program, considering its demanding nature and length? Example: "To maintain my motivation and passion for medicine, I plan to cultivate a supportive network of peers, mentors, and faculty who share my dedication to serving others. Additionally, I will seek opportunities for self-care, such as regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and engaging in hobbies that bring me joy. Reflecting on the impact of my work and the meaningful connections I make with patients will serve as constant reminders of why I chose this path. Ultimately, my unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in people's lives will fuel my motivation throughout the demanding and lengthy journey of medical training."

If you take the time to follow these steps and really dive into your preparation, you'll be able to tackle BS/MD interviews with confidence. This will not only help you present yourself in the best light but also improve your chances of leaving a positive impression on the admissions committee.

• Research the Program: Dive deep into the details of the BS/MD program you're applying to. Get to know its structure, curriculum, and any special offerings like early clinical exposure or research opportunities. Understanding these aspects will help you tailor your responses to match the program's goals.

• Review Your Application Materials: Take a moment to revisit your application materials. Reflect on the experiences, achievements, and personal qualities you highlighted in your essays and letters of recommendation. These are key points that you may need to elaborate on during the interview.

• Understand Current Healthcare Issues: Stay up-to-date on what's happening in the world of healthcare. Show that you're in tune with the latest topics, trends, and challenges facing the field. It demonstrates your dedication and awareness of the broader context in which medicine operates.

• Practice Common Interview Questions: Practice makes perfect! Spend some time rehearsing responses to common interview questions. Think about your academic journey, extracurricular activities, and long-term aspirations. Use real-life examples to illustrate your points and make your answers more compelling.

• Reflect on Your Personal Journey: Take a moment to reflect on your journey to medicine. Consider the pivotal moments, obstacles you've overcome, and mentors who have inspired you along the way. Sharing these reflections adds depth and authenticity to your interview responses.

• Highlight Your Strengths and Skills: Identify your strengths and skills that are relevant to a career in medicine. Whether it's your empathy, communication abilities, or problem-solving skills, make sure to showcase them during the interview. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you've honed these qualities over time.

• Mock Interviews: Practice, practice, practice! Enlist the help of friends, family, or mentors to conduct mock interviews. This will help you get comfortable with the format, refine your answers, and boost your confidence before the real thing.

• Demonstrate Professionalism: Approach the interview with professionalism and respect. Dress appropriately, arrive punctually, and greet your interviewers courteously. Maintain good posture, eye contact, and active listening throughout the conversation.

• Ask Questions: Don't forget to ask questions of your own! Show your interest in the program by asking insightful questions about its offerings, faculty, and student life. It's a chance to learn more and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

• Stay Calm and Confident: Finally, remember to stay calm and confident on interview day. Take deep breaths, remind yourself of your preparation, and approach the interview with a positive mindset. You've got this!