Spencer Lanoue
Writing an update letter for medical school can feel a bit like navigating a maze. It's not always clear what path to take or how to make your voice heard above the crowd. But don't worry. I'm here to help you figure it out. We'll break down the process, step by step, so you can craft an update letter that truly reflects your progress and keeps your application at the top of the pile.
Why Write an Update Letter?
Before jumping into the how-to, let's talk about the why. If you've been waitlisted or haven't heard back from a medical school, an update letter is your opportunity to keep your application fresh in the admissions committee's minds. But why bother? Well, it's your chance to highlight new achievements, express continued interest, and show your commitment to the program. A well-crafted update letter can sometimes make the difference between staying on the waitlist and getting that coveted acceptance letter.
Consider this: you've completed a significant research project, received an award, or taken on a new volunteer position since submitting your application. These are achievements that can strengthen your candidacy and make you stand out. So, if you have new information to share, don't hesitate to write an update letter.
Timing is Everything
So, when should you send this update letter? Timing is crucial. Sending it too soon might not give you enough time to accumulate substantial updates. On the other hand, waiting too long might miss the window of opportunity to make an impact. A good rule of thumb is to send your update letter a few months after your initial application, or as soon as you have something noteworthy to report.
Remember, medical school admissions are often rolling, and decisions can be made at any time. So, if you have new information that could enhance your application, don't wait until the last minute. Grab the opportunity when it arises and share your news promptly.
How to Structure Your Update Letter
Alright, now let's get into the nitty-gritty of writing the letter. While there's no one-size-fits-all formula, a clear structure can help you organize your thoughts and present your updates effectively.
- Introduction: Start by expressing gratitude and reiterating your interest in the school. A simple “Thank you for considering my application” goes a long way.
- Body: This is where you dive into the updates. Highlight your new accomplishments, experiences, or activities since you last communicated with the school.
- Conclusion: Reaffirm your interest in the program and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to their community.
Let's see what this looks like in practice:
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Person's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to express my gratitude for considering my application to [Medical School Name]. Since my initial application, I have engaged in several activities that I believe strengthen my candidacy.
I recently completed a research project on [Topic], which was accepted for presentation at [Conference Name]. In addition, I've continued volunteering at [Organization], where I've taken on a leadership role, furthering my passion for [Relevant Field].
Thank you once again for your consideration. I remain extremely enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Medical School Name] and contribute to the vibrant community.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Choosing the Right Tone
The tone of your update letter should be professional yet personable. You're aiming to present yourself as a dedicated, enthusiastic, and thoughtful applicant. Avoid coming across as overly formal or, on the flip side, too casual.
Think of it like this: you're having a conversation with someone you respect but don't know personally. Be respectful and polite, but let your genuine excitement and passion for the field shine through. After all, you're communicating with people who share your interest in medicine and healthcare.
Highlighting Your Achievements
When it comes to the body of your letter, focus on the quality of your updates rather than the quantity. You don't need to include every little thing you've done. Instead, choose the most relevant and impactful achievements that align with the values and mission of the medical school.
For example, if the school emphasizes research, highlight your research projects. If they value community service, focus on your volunteer work. Tailor your updates to what matters most to the program.
Example:
Since applying, I've had the opportunity to volunteer at a local clinic, where I assisted in patient care and health education. This experience reinforced my commitment to community health and preventive medicine.
See how this example ties the experience directly to the school's mission? That's the goal.
Expressing Continued Interest
It's vital to convey your continued interest in the program. Schools want to know that their applicants are genuinely enthusiastic about joining their community. So, make it clear that you're still all-in.
Consider mentioning specific aspects of the program that excite you or align with your career goals. This not only shows your interest but also demonstrates that you've done your homework and understand what makes the program unique.
Example:
I remain particularly drawn to [Medical School Name]'s focus on interdisciplinary learning and its commitment to serving underserved communities, which aligns perfectly with my career goals in public health.
Formatting Tips
When it comes to formatting, clarity and readability are key. Stick to a standard business letter format, with single spacing and a clear, professional font. Keep your letter to one page. Brevity is your friend here.
Here's a quick checklist to ensure your letter looks polished:
- Use a professional font like Times New Roman or Arial, size 11 or 12.
- Include your contact information and the date at the top.
- Address the letter to a specific person if possible.
- Use clear paragraphs with space between each section.
- Proofread for spelling and grammatical errors.
Getting Feedback
Before hitting send, it's always a good idea to get a second set of eyes on your letter. Ask a mentor, advisor, or friend to review it for clarity, tone, and content. They might catch errors you overlooked or suggest improvements you hadn't considered.
Interestingly enough, I often use Spell for this very purpose. It helps me draft and refine my documents with ease, ensuring I haven't missed any crucial details. Plus, the collaborative features let me share drafts with colleagues in real time for quick feedback.
Sending Your Update Letter
Now that your letter is polished and ready to go, it's time to send it off. Most schools accept update letters via email, but it's important to check their specific instructions. If they have a preferred method, follow it to the letter (pun intended!).
When sending via email, make sure your subject line is clear and to the point. Something like "Update to My Application" or "Additional Information for [Your Name]" works well. Attach your letter as a PDF to maintain formatting, and include a brief message in the body of the email introducing yourself and the purpose of the attachment.
Example:
Subject: Update to My Application
Dear [Admissions Office/Specific Person's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to provide an update to my application to [Medical School Name]. Please find the attached letter detailing my recent achievements and continued interest in your program.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards, [Your Name]
Follow-Up
After sending your update letter, it's wise to follow up with the admissions office to confirm they've received it. This can be a simple email a week or two after sending your update, politely asking for confirmation of receipt.
While it's hard to say for sure, this follow-up shows your continued interest and attention to detail. Just be sure not to overdo it. One follow-up is enough.
Final Thoughts
Writing an update letter for medical school is all about showcasing your growth and continued passion for the field. By focusing on relevant achievements, expressing genuine interest, and maintaining a professional tone, you can make a compelling case for your application. And remember, tools like Spell can help you draft and polish these documents quickly and easily, turning an overwhelming task into a manageable one.
