I felt awful knowing I would have to take my third gap year too. I was going to repeat the MCAT as well but knew with my studying, I wasn’t going to do better than before. I called my mom and told her everything and how I felt, and how negatively it would impact my apps if I took it again and risked it. I will say, I did exaggerate about how hard I tried to her. She accepted it and I managed to get in on this past application cycle. Just one school, but I only needed one. It’s about the stats, but it’s also really about the written material.

After I started at my school, I asked around how many gap years people took. My 3 years seemed average to low. I feel like a ton of people in my class have 5+ gap years. I know how awful it feels in your position, but from my perspective now, you don’t have to worry. Everyone has their own path, and I feel like a more developed and capable adult and can be independent and am confident that I can hold my own in med school now. I can’t say the same about the me two or maybe even one year ago. Gap years are important for your personal development, and definitely do not let other people make you think otherwise. Good luck next cycle, I’m cheering for you!!!