A Few Ways To Help You Get Into Medical School — This Year.

Have the rules changed? Is anything different about getting into medical school this year than last? Not really, no — the same fundamentals still apply. But just in case you need a refresher on the 5 things you should be doing — right now — to increase your chances, we’ve come to the rescue.

#5: Practice Your Admissions Interview.

There’s no point going in cold to this one. Pretend you’re an actor getting ready to perform — the only way you’re going to master those lines and nail your performance is by rehearsing, as much as possible. Set a schedule, sit down with a friend, and just start talking as though you were in the interview. You want to stay loose and be able to improvise, but you don’t want to go in without having covered some of this ground first.

#4: Do Your Research Online.

There are a lot of great eBooks, articles (ahem) and blog posts dedicated to mastering the medical school admissions process. Spend a few hours, print out 20 of the most comprehensive and helpful ones you can find, and refer back to them if you find yourself getting off track. If you put the work in, it’ll show.

#3: Hit the Bookstore.

If you’re about to do a medical school interview, you might be faced with a question about some of the current issues facing doctors in 2010. Medical schools want to see well-informed, curious, interested candidates who are conscious of the role doctors play in society. Actively seek out literature to broaden your perspective. Read Atul Gawande and Oliver Sacks, and stay sharp.

#2: Buy a Style Guide.

If you’re liable to lapse into terrible, bureaucratic prose every time you have to write a motivation letter, you are in desperate need of a writer’s guide. Pick up a few of them (or stick to the classic Strunk & White) and make sure your prose is direct, accessible, and clear. Your future self will thank you.

#1: Know When to Seek Help.

It’s not the easiest thing in the world, trying to get into medical school all on your own. If you find yourself struggling, or just need to get some professional perspective, look to the people who know the process inside and out. Talk to your counselors at school, or find a qualified advisor who knows what they’re doing. It might be the best investment you could make.

It is optimal to start working on your medical school application as soon as you make the decision to pursue a medical career. Professional medical school admissions consulting companies will not only help you with application process, but will also prepare you for the admissions interview.