Application to medical school, is it ok to say that a family history of cancer is your motivation?

Question

Will it do more harm than good?

Answer 1

You can talk about your family's medical history of cancer as a source of inspiration, but at every point in your essay, you should always be answering the question, "Why does this make me a good medical applicant?" And when you get to secondaries, you should always answer the question "Why would I be a good candidate for this medical school?"

If you read through your personal statement and you stray too far off these central points, then get back on track.

So yes, talking about cancer and how it fueled your motivation is good. But ultimately, you need to always demonstrate the points that make you a good candidate for med school.

Answer 2

The most important thing with this type of application is to be honest. The people who review these applications are generally fairly cynical and unforgiving for insincerity. Assuming you are sincere, be sure to explain exactly how your family's history of cancer has motivated you. It is very important to explain your motivation in a way that is logical and also illustrates why you should be accepted. Good luck.

Answer 3

If it truly is your motivation then say it. If not then don't. This is probably something they hear often so unless it is really your reason I wouldn't use it.