The post-bac program provides unparalleled advising resources to prepare students for success in the classroom and outside it. Since we only admit a small class of approximately 25-30 students each year, we become well-acquainted with each individual, which is key in helping each find a tailored application strategy.
Advising Course
The post-bac program offers a comprehensive, year-long advising course with 25-30 class sessions throughout the summer, fall, and spring semesters. Through this thoughtfully designed curriculum, students develop a deeper understanding of their motivations for medicine and, as career changers, the relationship between their prior experiences and goals as future physicians. Students expand their views of medicine and their possible roles within it while also developing a deeper understanding of the medical school perspective. Presentations by medical school admissions representatives (approximately 20 medical schools present to our students each year) round out the extensive education we offer our students.
One-on-One Advising
Building off the advising course and multiple opportunities for individual feedback on application documents, students regularly meet one-on-one with the program’s director and assistant director to receive personalized guidance. The one-on-one advising allows students to focus on their unique questions and concerns. For example, in class, we discuss a strategy for selecting which medical schools to apply to; in advising, a student may ask for feedback on a challenge they are facing in considering which schools to include. This guidance continues through the glide year(s) and application process.
Other Advising Resources
In addition to the above, our students have access to a carefully crafted set of videos and written resources designed to empower students through their journey to medicine. Topics include a set of seven videos exploring medical school interviews as well as videos discussing experiences, secondary applications, and update letters.
Free Academic Support
Students can utilize all of the academic support services offered through the Krieger School’s Office of Academic Support for the premedical courses. We arrange for post-bac-only sections of PILOT, which is peer-led-team learning in chemistry and physics. In addition, the post-bac program hires tutors for review sessions in chemistry, physics, and organic chemistry to serve the needs of students throughout the summer and academic year. We begin each semester with optional bootcamp sessions to help students preview the academic content they will see in the coming semester and develop their problem solving skills.
Personalized Committee Letter of Evaluation
Each student is eligible for a comprehensive premedical letter of evaluation (also known as a committee letter). This letter is based on personal advising sessions, required documents, and letters submitted by faculty and others from prior college work, volunteer experiences, and employment.
Community of Colleagues and Friends
All Hopkins post-bac students become members of our community. We strongly encourage students to fully engage with colleagues in building a collaborative, supportive, and welcoming cohort, with our active alumni also serving as a resource and source of support. Together, they create an impressive network of colleagues that will support you in your journey to medical school, residency, and beyond.