Preparation & MCAT Stage
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Today: Jun 15
May 4, 2026
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Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Richmond, VAâ˘Public, Urban
ChanceNew
|
2025
2024
2023
2022
Max 250 characters
1.Clinical exposure can be separated into two distinct components: 1) physician observation; and 2) work/volunteerism in a clinical setting. (250 characters each part)
Physician observation typically comes from three different types of experiences: shadowing a physician; scribing for a physician, and assisting a physician while they are performing their duties with a patient. Physician observation always involves direct contact with a medical doctor.
Work/volunteerism in a clinical setting is all the work performed in a clinical setting that does not involve physician observation. It can include working with and caring for patients, serving as an EMT, acting as an employee or volunteer in a hospital or clinic.Â
Below, please clarify your time spent in these two distinct clinical exposure areas by first providing the total number of hours, followed by a brief description of your activities.
Physician Observation (hours; description)
Work/Volunteerism in a Clinical Setting (hours; description).
Community ServiceClinical ExperienceExtracurriculars / Activities List
ChanceModerate
|
2025
2024
2023
2022
Max 2000 characters
2.Supplemental Essay#1
Using specific examples, discuss how your mission and values align with those of VCU School of Medicine.
Mission Statement
ChanceNew
|
2025
2024
2023
2022
Max 2000 characters
3.Supplemental Essay#2
Describe a time you did something because it needed to be done even though it wasnât your responsibility.
ChanceModerate
|
2025
2024
2023
2022
Max 2000 characters
4.Please briefly explain any lapses in your journey to medicine that are not explained in your application.
ChanceHigh
|
2025
2024
2023
2022
Max 2000 characters
5.Please briefly explain any low GPAs or poor grades.
Academic Hardship
ChanceNew
|
2025
2024
2023
2022
No word limit
6.What will you be doing for the next twelve months during the application cycle?
Gap Year