I receive a lot of questions about the “why-our-school” secondary essay prompt. Although it’s a lot of work, the goal here is to research each school and then link your qualities or interests with the school’s.

The mistake I see made is that applicants tend to use generalities, e.g. “XX University is an excellent match for me because I am seeking a medical school with an outstanding faculty and a focus on research.” That sentence does not afford the admissions committee members a sense that the applicant is interested in their institution. On the contrary, it sounds like something anyone could have written about any school.

Say your interests and accomplishments are linked to the underserved. Look into the school’s commitment to that community – a free clinic at which the medical students volunteer, a medical student program to teach sex education in a struggling public high school, etc. Then, in your essay, specifically mention your achievements and the school’s associated opportunities.

Remember: Schools want to see that you like them!

For those who need some guidance, here’s information about my secondary essay service.