Questions from Non-Traditional Students 

 
How do I prepare?
Does age REALLY matter?
Do I need an advisor?
No sciences a disadvantage?
GPA: undergrad vs. postbac
Long absence from college a problem?
Do I need mentors?
How do I build self-confidence?
How do I select a college?
 

 
Can I learn as fast as younger students?
How will I adjust to college?
Will schools believe my career change is serious?
Will I recall my previous science coursework?
Can I use my non-science background?
How do I balance school, work & clinical experience?
Will admissions care about my balancing act?
Testimonials
Advantages of Non-Traditional Students?
 

 
Can I learn as fast as the younger students?

This is what the admissions committees also want to know. So, take a deep breath, get good advising, line up your support group and "Go for it!"

How will I adjust to college? Will the faculty treat me differently as an older student? I don't feel as though I fit in with the teenage premedical students. Will I have a support group?

At one college, the "Postbaccalaureate and Non-traditional Prehealth Support Group" was initiated by students. They had a monthly meeting inevitably at a cheap, local restaurant or at a student's home (food seemed to always be a common thread). They state in their literature, "The road to medical school is long, but definitely achievable. The fact that this support group exists is due to the efforts of preprofessional hopefuls who have made it. They know, as you do, that to attempt this journey without support is risky and dangerous. Medical schools rely on the ability of future doctors to use all their resources in accomplishing their goals. We are here to equip you with some helpful knowledge and hints about the tasks that await you. See you at the meetings!" Their stated purpose is to "address specific circumstances unique to non-traditional students; to unify, to become aquainted with your peers, to provide an atmosphere of academic and social support; to share and build ties to the academic and professional community; to increase awareness of opportunities which exist that are related to our career plans." If your college does not have such a group, start one. Or, find one elsewhere...or find that trusted Advisor who can support you.

Will schools believe that my change of career is serious, since I just made my decision three years ago?

You need significant medical, community, service and leadership experiences which substantiate your claim to your new career. If you have been developing these parts of your background for several years, then you already have a track record. If you have not taken opportunities to develop these aspects of your background, you must begin to do so now. It will take at least a year, and maybe much longer to do this.

Go to next question