Embark on an extraordinary journey towards becoming an exceptional physician at the renowned Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. Our innovative secondary application process for the 2024-2025 cycle invites you to delve into your motivations, experiences, and aspirations that will propel you on this transformative path. As you navigate through our comprehensive questions, you will have the opportunity to showcase your unique qualities and demonstrate your unwavering commitment to the noble profession of medicine.
Through this application, we seek to understand not only your academic achievements but also the driving forces that have shaped your passion for healing. Share with us your pivotal moments, both personal and professional, that have ignited your desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Articulate your aspirations and how the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine aligns with your vision for a fulfilling career in healthcare.
As you complete your secondary application, embrace the opportunity to reflect on your experiences and articulate how they have prepared you for the rigors of medical school and the challenges and rewards of becoming an exceptional physician. We encourage you to approach this process with introspection, authenticity, and a unwavering belief in your potential. Join us at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV, where we are committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment that empowers you to achieve your full potential and make your mark in the world of medicine.
Overview of Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine Secondary Essay Requirements
Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine – MD Program Secondary Essay Question
Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine (UNLV SOM) seeks mission-driven students who are dedicated to improving the health of underserved communities and demonstrating a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. In your personal statement, please describe your experiences and perspectives on these topics, and how they have shaped your aspirations to become a physician.
In your response, please highlight:
- Your understanding of the social determinants of health and health disparities
- Your experiences interacting with diverse populations and understanding their unique health challenges
- Your commitment to addressing health inequities and promoting health equity
- How your experiences and perspectives align with UNLV SOM’s mission and values
Please limit your response to 1,500 characters (including spaces).
Word Limit: 1,500 characters (including spaces)
Additional Essay Information
| Section | Character Limit |
|---|---|
| Personal Statement | 5,300 characters |
| Diversity Statement | 1,500 characters |
Prompts for the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine Secondary Essays
Describe a challenge you have faced and how you tackled it.
In this essay, you should describe a specific challenge or obstacle you have faced in your life, and explain how you approached and overcame it. This could be an academic challenge, a personal setback, or a professional obstacle. The goal of this essay is to demonstrate your resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn from adversity.
How do you plan to contribute to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and the community?
For this essay, you should research the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and the Las Vegas community, and identify ways in which you can contribute to both. This could include participating in research projects, volunteering in the community, or working with underserved populations. The goal of this essay is to demonstrate your commitment to the school and community, and your passion for making a difference.
Research Experience
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine is committed to providing students with opportunities to conduct research. If you have experience with research, be sure to highlight it in your secondary essay. This could include describing your role in a research project, the methods you used, and the results of your work. If you do not have any research experience, you can still express your interest in getting involved in research at the school.
Community Involvement
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, a diverse city with a vibrant community. The school is committed to serving the Las Vegas community, and students are encouraged to get involved in community outreach programs. If you have experience with community involvement, be sure to highlight it in your secondary essay. This could include volunteering at a local clinic, working with underprivileged populations, or participating in community events. If you do not have any community involvement experience, you can still express your interest in getting involved in the Las Vegas community.
| Secondary Essay Prompts for the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine | |
|---|---|
| Essay 1 | Describe a challenge you have faced and how you tackled it. |
| Essay 2 | How do you plan to contribute to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and the community? |
Do Your Research
Before you start writing your secondary essays, take some time to learn more about the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine. Visit the school’s website, read the mission statement, and explore the curriculum. This will help you understand the school’s values and priorities, and tailor your essays accordingly.
Highlight Your Experiences
The secondary essays are your chance to showcase your experiences and how they have shaped you as a person and a future physician. Don’t be afraid to share your unique story, from your academic pursuits to your extracurricular activities. Be specific and provide concrete examples to illustrate your points.
Proofread Carefully
Once you have finished writing your essays, take some time to proofread them carefully. Make sure there are no errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. You may also want to ask a friend or family member to review your essays and provide feedback.
Additional Tips:
Tailoring:
| Essay Prompt | Tailoring Tips |
|---|---|
| Why medicine? |
|
| Describe a time you overcame a challenge. |
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Storytelling:
- Start with an interesting anecdote or personal experience.
- Use vivid and specific language to create a strong narrative.
- Use a narrative arc to build tension and resolve the conflict.
- Take time to reflect on your experiences and identify the lessons you have learned.
- Explain how these lessons have influenced your personal and professional development.
- Discuss how your experiences have shaped your goals and aspirations as a future physician.
- Some experiences can change the way we see ourselves. Describe an experience that significantly changed your self-perception and your values.
- The world you come from has shaped who you’ve become. Describe how your personal history or cultural background has influenced your commitment to serving others.
- Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that demonstrated your leadership ability and produced positive outcomes. Describe your role in the experience and what you learned about leadership.
- Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
- Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.
- Personal statement
- Dean’s letter
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- MCAT scores
Reflective Practice:
Common Application vs. School-Specific Secondary Essay Requirements
When applying to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV for the 2024-2025 cycle, applicants will need to submit either the Common Application or a school-specific secondary essay. The Common Application includes a series of prompts that are shared by many different medical schools, while the school-specific secondary essay is unique to UNLV.
Common Application
The Common Application for the 2024-2025 cycle includes the following prompts:
School-Specific Secondary Essay
UNLV has one school-specific secondary essay prompt for the 2024-2025 cycle:
Please describe the qualities of a physician that you particularly admire, and explain how you have demonstrated these qualities in your own experiences.
This essay should be approximately 500 words in length and should be submitted through the UNLV secondary application portal.
Deadlines and Submission Guidelines for Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine Secondaries
Deadlines
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine (UNLV SOM) has rolling admissions, so there is no specified deadline for submitting secondary applications. However, it is generally recommended to submit your secondary application as soon as possible after receiving an invitation.
Submission Guidelines
The UNLV SOM secondary application is submitted through the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS). You will need to create an AACOMAS account and complete the primary application before you can access the UNLV SOM secondary application.
Secondary Application Fee
The UNLV SOM secondary application fee is $100. The fee can be waived if you have financial need. To request a fee waiver, you will need to submit a Fee Waiver Request Form to the AACOMAS.
Required Materials
The UNLV SOM secondary application requires the following materials:
Uploading Materials
You will need to upload all of your required materials to the AACOMAS website. The file formats that are accepted are PDF, JPG, and PNG. The maximum file size for each document is 10MB.
Supplemental Materials
The UNLV SOM secondary application does not allow you to submit any supplemental materials, such as a CV or a research paper. However, you may be able to include additional information in your personal statement or letters of recommendation.
Format and Length Requirements for Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine Secondary Essays
Instructions
Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine (UNLV SOM) requires applicants to submit secondary essays through the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS). The following are the format and length requirements for the essays:
Number of Essays
3
Essay Format
Double-spaced, 12-point font
Essay Length
500 words or less
Essay Questions
The essay questions for the 2024-2025 cycle are not yet available. However, based on previous years, the essay prompts will likely focus on your motivation for pursuing medicine, your experiences that have shaped your interest in osteopathic medicine, and your goals for your medical career.
What makes UNLV SOM secondary essays stand out?
In addition to the standard questions, UNLV SOM also requires applicants to submit an essay that addresses the following:
| Prompt | Length |
|---|---|
| In your opinion, what is the significance of the Osteopathic Oath? How would you apply these principles in your medical practice? | 150 words or less |
This essay is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your understanding of the osteopathic philosophy and how it would guide your approach to patient care. In your response, be sure to discuss the four principles of osteopathy (unity of the body, self-healing, structure-function, and treatment of the whole person) and how you plan to incorporate them into your practice.
Sharing Secondary Essay Tips from Current Students at Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine
1. Highlight Your Passion for UNLV’s Mission
Showcase how UNLV’s commitment to diversity, community engagement, and experiential learning aligns with your aspirations.
2. Emphasize Your Resilience and Drive
Describe challenges you’ve faced and the lessons learned, demonstrating your ability to persevere and thrive in demanding environments.
3. Discuss Your Interdisciplinary Interests
Highlight your curiosity and involvement in fields beyond medicine, showing that you value a holistic approach to healthcare.
4. Address Your Commitment to Rural Health
Explain why you’re passionate about addressing health disparities in rural communities and how your experiences have prepared you.
5. Write with Clarity and Conciseness
Follow the essay guidelines carefully, being mindful of the word limit. Use specific examples and avoid vague generalizations.
6. Proofread Carefully
Ensure your essays are free from grammatical errors and typos. Seek feedback from others to improve clarity and impact.
7. Seek Inspiration from the UNLV Community
Attend virtual events or connect with current students to gain insights into the school’s values and opportunities. This can help you craft essays that authentically convey your fit with UNLV.
TipExplanation
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Reflect on UNLV’s website
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Explore the school’s mission statement and key initiatives to understand its priorities.
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Attend virtual town halls
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Engage with faculty and staff to learn about the school’s culture and curriculum.
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Connect with current students on LinkedIn
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Reach out to students in your field of interest to ask questions and gain valuable perspectives. Express yourself concisely: Stick to the word count limits for each essay. If they ask for 500 words, aim for 500 words, not 800. Avoid making assumptions: Don’t assume the admissions committee knows your background or experiences. Provide necessary context and details. Showcase your personality: Let your voice shine through in your essays. Don’t write in a robotic or overly formal style. Be authentic: Write about experiences and qualities that make you unique. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Proofreading and Editing: Take the time to carefully proofread and edit your essays for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Organize your thoughts: Structure your essays logically and coherently. Use clear transitions to connect ideas and avoid jumping around. Avoid clichés and overuse of adjectives: Use specific and vivid language to describe your experiences and avoid generic phrases. Get feedback: Ask a friend, family member, or mentor to review your essays and provide constructive criticism.
|
|---|
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Volunteer at local clinic | Provided medical assistance to underserved patients, such as taking vital signs, assisting with exams, and providing emotional support. |
| Shadowing a physician | Observed surgeries, patient consultations, and medical procedures, gaining insights into the daily life of a physician. |
| Conducting research in a medical field | Participated in a year-long research project on the effects of a new drug on cancer cells, resulting in a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. |
Paragraph One
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV is a top-ranked medical school that receives a high volume of applications each year. As a result, the admissions committee looks for essays that are well-written, engaging, and free of common pitfalls. Here are some strategies you can use to avoid these pitfalls and write a strong secondary essay that will help you stand out from the competition.
Paragraph Two
Proofread Carefully
One of the most common pitfalls in secondary essays is typos and grammatical errors. These errors can make your essay look sloppy and unprofessional, and they can also distract the admissions committee from your main points. Before you submit your essay, be sure to proofread it carefully for any errors. Ask a friend or family member to proofread it as well.
Paragraph Three
Avoid Clichés
Another common pitfall is using clichés. Clichés are overused phrases that are not original or interesting. They can make your essay sound boring and uninspired. Instead of using clichés, try to use fresh, original language that will help your essay stand out.
Paragraph Four
Be Specific
When you are writing your essay, be sure to be specific. Don’t just make general statements about yourself or your experiences. Instead, provide specific examples that illustrate your points. This will help the admissions committee to get a better sense of who you are and what you have to offer.
Paragraph Five
Be Authentic
One of the most important things you can do in your secondary essay is to be authentic. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. The admissions committee wants to get to know the real you, so be yourself and let your personality shine through.
Paragraph Six
Answer the Prompt
Make sure you answer the prompt that is given to you. Don’t go off on a tangent or write about something that is not relevant. The admissions committee wants to know why you are interested in their school and what you can offer them. So be sure to answer the prompt directly and concisely.
Paragraph Seven
Get Feedback
Once you have written your essay, get feedback from a trusted source. This could be a friend, family member, teacher, or advisor. They can give you feedback on your writing style, grammar, and overall content. This feedback can help you to improve your essay and make it even stronger.
Paragraph Eight
Revise and Edit
After you have gotten feedback on your essay, take some time to revise and edit it. This means making changes to the content, structure, and language of your essay. The goal is to make your essay as strong as possible. Revise until you are completely satisfied with your work.
Paragraph Nine
Double-check formatting
Make sure your essay is properly formatted according to the instructions provided by the school. This includes using the correct font size, margins, and line spacing. Also, be sure to check that your essay is within the required word limit. The table below provides a summary of the formatting requirements for Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV secondary essays:
| Formatting Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Font size | 12pt |
| Margins | 1 inch on all sides |
| Line spacing | Double-spaced |
| Word limit | 500 words |
Resources for Additional Support and Guidance with Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine Secondary Essays
1. Reach Out to the Admissions Office
The Admissions Office is a great resource for any questions you have about the secondary essays. They can provide guidance on what the essays should cover, how to structure them, and what they are looking for in a successful essay.
2. Attend a Secondary Essay Workshop
The KKSOM Admissions Office offers free secondary essay workshops throughout the application cycle. These workshops are led by admissions staff members who can provide you with helpful tips and advice.
3. Join a Pre-Medical Society
Pre-medical societies on campus can be a great way to connect with other applicants and get feedback on your essays. You can also find mentors and advisors who can provide guidance and support.
4. Hire a Pre-Medical Advisor
A pre-medical advisor can provide you with personalized guidance on your application, including your secondary essays. They can help you develop a strong application strategy and ensure that your essays are well-written and polished.
5. Use Online Resources
There are a number of online resources that can help you with your secondary essays. These resources include sample essays, essay prompts, and writing guides.
6. Get Feedback from Friends and Family
Ask friends and family members to read your essays and give you feedback. They can help you identify any areas that need improvement and ensure that your essays are clear and well-written.
7. Use the Essay Analyzer Tool
The KKSOM Admissions Office offers an essay analyzer tool that can help you identify areas for improvement in your essays. This tool can provide you with feedback on your grammar, style, and overall structure.
8. Write Multiple Drafts
Don’t expect to write a perfect essay on your first try. Write multiple drafts and get feedback from others before submitting your final essay.
9. Proofread Carefully
Once you have finished writing your essay, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.
10. Essay Prompts
| Essay | Prompt | Word Count |
|---|---|---|
| Diversity and Inclusion | Describe your experiences with diversity and inclusion, and how they have shaped your perspective. (500-750 words) | 500-750 |
| Personal Statement | Tell us about your background, your experiences, and your aspirations. How do these experiences motivate you to pursue a career in medicine? (500-750 words) | 500-750 |
| Leadership and Service | Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership and service in your community or school. (300-500 words) | 300-500 |
Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV Secondaries 2024-2025 SDN
The Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV is a relatively new medical school, having only been founded in 2017. However, it has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative curriculum and commitment to community engagement. The school’s secondary application for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle is now open, and it includes several new features.
One of the most significant changes to the secondary application is the addition of a new essay prompt. The prompt asks applicants to describe a time when they had to overcome a challenge or setback. This essay gives applicants an opportunity to demonstrate their resilience and perseverance, which are two important qualities for future physicians.
Another change to the secondary application is the addition of a new section that asks applicants to provide information about their community service experiences. This section gives applicants an opportunity to highlight their commitment to giving back to their community, which is another important quality for future physicians.
People Also Ask About Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV Secondaries 2024-2025 SDN
When is the deadline for the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV secondary application?
The deadline for the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV secondary application is October 15, 2024.
What is the average MCAT score of students admitted to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV?
The average MCAT score of students admitted to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV is 511.
What is the average GPA of students admitted to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV?
The average GPA of students admitted to the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV is 3.7.
