13 prompts in the 2025-2026 cycle
Describe a time when you have made a decision that was not popular and how you handled this. (Leadership competency)
We would like to learn how you developed and demonstrated core professionalism competencies that are required of entering medical students. Please respond to the first prompt (#1; Diversity ). Then select three of the other six prompts (#2-#7). Each response should be 150-200 words. Use the text box below for your answer. Separate each of your four responses by writing the competency above/before your response (example: Teamwork - All teams have their struggles, but they can be overcome...).
UMass Chan Medical School strives to be a diverse academic community mindful of the fact that diversity makes our community stronger and benefits the patients we serve. Share your definition of diversity. Describe an example where you contributed to the diversity of a group, team or class. Connect this to how you will contribute to the diversity of the UMass Chan Medical School community. (Diversity)
Have you ever been in the middle of a situation where there was poor communication? What did you do to improve it? (Communication)
Describe a time when you have "thought outside the box" to solve a problem. (Inquiry)
Why did you apply to T.H. Chan SOM? (200 word limit)
Please discuss any part of your application that you feel requires further explanation. For example, discuss grades or MCAT scores that do not reflect your true ability, and/or a gap in time that is not explained elsewhere in your application. Discuss any impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on your academic, service, extracurricular or employment experiences.If you are reapplying to T.H. Chan SOM, highlight how you have strengthened your application. (250 word limit)
If you have participated in T.H. Chan SOM or UMass Memorial Health Care, or UMass Chan Medical-Baystate sponsored programs (SEP, Summer Research Program, Worcester Pathway Collaborative, AHEC, BaccMD, HSPP, Academic Internships, BSEP, Summer Scholars) please describe how these programs helped you decide to apply to T.H. Chan SOM. (200 word limit)
If you are currently taking a gap year, in what activities are you engaged? (200 word limit)
Please describe an example of your personal and/or professional experience with and understanding of systemic inequity, exclusion, or lack of representation in health care in the United States. How did you arrive at this understanding? (200 word limit)
Describe a time when you were on a team that was dysfunctional in some regard. How did you address the situation? (Teamwork)
Describe a meaningful interaction you have had with a person whom you have helped at work, school or another activity. (Empathy/Compassion)
Describe a time when you suffered a setback. How did you respond to this challenge? (Persistence/Grit)