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*wondering about forgiveness, acceptance, and med school*

Posted by James Griffin

Thursday, December 20, 2007 - 3:26 AM

Full Text:

I will be a non-traditional medical school applicant since I come from a background that involves much self-inflicted trouble throughout my lifetime. I am currently a student here in Atlanta, GA doing some post-bacc studies in pre-med. I question whether or not my previous activities involving mischief, namely drinking and driving and substance abuse charges as well as an incidence that resulted in a conviction of "entering an automobile with intent to commit theft," would bar me from doing so. It has been 8+ years since the more serious offense ("entering an auto" which was a felony) and nearly the same amount of time for the other two charges (2 DUIs, 1 marijuana possession), but the 3rd DUI charge came within the last two years.

Other than the last DUI, I have demonstrated a complete lifestyle change—graduating with dual Bachelors degrees (Psychology and Sociology) Summa Cum Laude, have excellent faculty recommendations and research experience, and can provide other personal and professional references (several from Health Professionals currently in the field I seek to join). As a matter of fact, my chosen field (Psychiatry/Behavioral Neuroscience) is a direct result of my own experience and struggle with substance abuse and addiction issues, which is something I am not only intrinsically motivated to study and work around, but would also have the capacity to empathize with those I would be caring for. I have always exhibited a strong desire to alleviate others’ suffering, and I know I will be successful in this type of role.

My question is this: How will my case will be evaluated considering my history? I will continue to pursue this path with diligence regardless, but I must admit that the student loans are accumulating at a rate that causes such questions to come about.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!