2. Good grades.  You need to show that you can be a good medical student.  Thus, most of your grades in your science classes should be A's and B's.  One or two lower grades will not derail your application, but you should not accumulate more of those grades.  Similarly, don't make it a habit to withdraw from or repeat courses.  Obviously, you have to deserve your good grades.  If you received a high grade without really learning the material, that will not help you when you take the standardized tests most programs require.

3. High scores on standardized tests.  So that they can directly compare applicants from different schools, medical schools require applicants to take the same test.  For medical schools, this is the MCAT; for dental schools it is the DAT.  For other programs, the tests vary by school.  In any case, success on these tests depends largely on what you learned in the classroom (so you had better learn that material while you are taking those courses!) and your ability to take tests.  In our offices we have several test preparation guides and sample tests that you can borrow so you can practice and review.

4. The reputation of the undergraduate program.  If your college develops a reputation for giving high grades to students who end up doing poorly on standardized tests, then your own grades (even if they are good) will not be taken seriously by admission committees.  Poor teaching and grade inflation hurt students in the long run, which is why your professors at Longwood maintain high standards.  If you meet those high standards, that is a good indication that you will get into and succeed in a demanding medical program.  If, however, you do not meet those standards, then it may be time to meet with me to consider alternative careers or strategies to improve your grades.

5. Health care experience .  To make sure applicants have a realistic view of health care, admissions committees usually prefer applicants who have had some relevant experience.  Examples include working as an emergency medical technician and volunteering at a medical or veterinary clinic.  You can gain this experience during a regular semester or during the summer, but try to obtain it before you send out your medical school applications.

6. Research experience.  This is not an absolute requirement, but it can make the difference in getting accepted into medical school.  Research will be a part of medical school and your professional development.  Thus, admissions committees will think more highly of applicants who know what it takes to conduct a scientific investigation: obtaining references, statistical analysis, critical thinking, using specialized equipment, etc.  There are many ways to gain this experience.

• You can conduct research here at Longwood.  Many of the faculty in the Department of Natural Sciences have projects that can be carried out by undergraduates.  Don't be shy about asking your instructors about their research; you might end up doing something you really enjoy!  Be aware, however, that research will be a significant responsibility.  In general, you will be expected to commit at least a year and work diligently several hours each week on your project.  Clearly, you will stick with and make the most of your project if you are actually interested in it, so don't engage in research if you really do not care for it.
• You can conduct research at other institutions.  Many universities offer summer research fellowships, which are great in many ways.  They offer a wide range of research possibilities, often cutting edge. They offer stipends (maybe even room and board).  They are competitive; getting one of them will certainly impress an admissions committee.  They also let you experience a different academic environment.  For more information, check "Summer Opportunities" at the bulletin board near Stevens 112 and this useful web site from Kean University.

8. Strong letters of recommendation. To get to know you beyond your grades and test scores, admissions committees require letters of recommendation.  Most schools ask for letters from three references.  At least two of these should be professors in your science classes; the third can be another professor, an employer, a mentor, or your research or health experience supervisor.  In selecting people to write letters for you, choose those who know you well and can write specifically and positively about your abilities, experience, motivation, and personality.  Of course, you help your own case by making sure your references get to know you and have good things to say.  Inform your references early that you would like a letter from them; they can then write it more carefully.

As you can see, preparing for a medical education is complex, and our job is to help you.  If you have questions on anything from selecting classes and schools to preparing for tests and (should you get them) interviews, please visit your adviser. They look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goal.