Experiences & Applications

Building Experiences

Health professions programs seek applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to serving others, explored their chosen profession, and developed the competencies needed to succeed in healthcare. Experiences outside the classroom help students better understand healthcare careers, connect learning to practice, and reflect on how their interests, values, and strengths align with future goals.

Through H3P, students are encouraged to engage in a variety of experiences that support personal and professional growth, including clinical exposure, community engagement, leadership, research, employment, and campus involvement. Rather than focusing on checking boxes, students should seek opportunities that foster learning, challenge assumptions, deepen self-awareness, and contribute to the well-being of others.

Applying to Graduate School

Application Process & Timeline

Preparing for professional school is a multi-year process that involves academic preparation, meaningful experiences, self-reflection, and careful planning. There is no single "right" timeline. While some students apply on a timeline that allows them to begin professional school shortly after graduation, many choose to take one or more gap years to gain additional experience, strengthen their application, or pursue other personal and professional goals.

Most health professions programs begin accepting applications approximately one year before enrollment. As a result, students who plan to enter professional school immediately after graduation typically begin the application process during the summer before their senior year.

Because many programs use rolling admissions, early preparation and timely application submission are often advantageous. Students are encouraged to work with H3P advisors to assess their readiness, develop an application timeline, and determine the timing that best aligns with their goals.

Common Application Components

While requirements vary by profession and program, most applications include:

  • Prerequisite Coursework
  • Clinical, Service, Research, and Leadership Experiences
  • Standardized Exams (if required)
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Personal Statement or Essays
  • Official Transcripts
  • School Selection and Application Strategy
  • Application and Secondary Fees
  • Interviews

Application Support

Through workshops, Canvas modules, and individualized advising, H3P guides students as they prepare competitive applications and make informed decisions about the next stage of their journey. Available support includes:
  • Application planning and readiness assessments
  • School selection and application strategy
  • Personal statement feedback
  • Letters of recommendation planning
  • Interview preparation and mock interviews
  • Gap year and reapplication planning
Current Students: Canvas Resources
Alumni: Access Resources

If you are a current student needing access to Canvas, please complete the pre-health interest survey. If you are an alumni needing access to application resources and cannot access the link above, please email us directly.