Health Professions Advising

Cindy Seltzer, Ed.D., MBA

Helen Wallace ’33 Director, Health Professions Advising

Layne Flynn

Senior Assistant Director, Health Professions Advising

Grace Dodd ’25

Health Professions Peer Career Mentor

Riannon Last ’25

Health Professions Peer Career Mentor

Ilham Matiker ’27

Health Professions Peer Career Mentor

Green Hall 4th Floor
106 Central Street
Wellesley, MA 02481
Tel 781-283-3145
cseltzer@wellesley.edu

Welcome to Career Education’s Health Professions Advising page. Through the resources on this page, we will help you to explore clinical care across a variety of patient-facing roles, including: nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, medicine, physical therapy, speech language pathology, physician assistant, podiatry, pharmacy, and more. We encourage you to use this page to learn more whether you are exploring, preparing, or applying within the health professions. We look forward to working with you!

Applying in 2025 for 2026 Matriculation?

Make sure to note our Deadlines and Requirements for a Committee Letter, download and read the applicant handbook and watch the Application Kickoff Video!

Wondering Where to Begin?

Watch the recording of our October 2022 Info Session "What I Wish I Knew My First Year," which covers how to plan your path to medical school, be successful in academics, and prepare early for the application process.

Sign up for newsletters!

Update your Career Interests in Handshake to sign up for Health Profession newsletters from Cindy! You'll learn about events, discover opportunities, hear alumnae stories, and more.

Green Hall 4th Floor
106 Central Street
Wellesley, MA 02481
Tel 781-283-3145
cseltzer@wellesley.edu

Office hours

Appointments can be scheduled in Handshake for Mon–Fri.

Discounted Test Preparation Resources for the MCAT and DAT

Health Professions Advising is pleased to offer students and alums a discount on common test prep products, including Princeton Review, AAMC Prep Bundle, DAT Bootcamp, & UWorld MCAT Prep.

Learn More

Exploring Possibilities in the Health Professions

In addition to advising students applying for medical school, Health Professions advising at Wellesley can help you explore other patient-facing careers.

Pre-Med Scholars Program

The Pre-Med Scholars program supports Wellesley's inclusive excellence initiative, preparing students for careers in medicine by offering connections, information and opportunities during the crucial first year of college. The goal of the cohort program is to support students from low-income and first generation backgrounds in successfully preparing for and entering medical careers.

Learn More

2023-24 MPAC Annual Report

Interested in learning more about the Medical Professions Advising Committee (MPAC) letter process and learning more about Wellesley admissions to medical school? Learn more in our 2023-24 Annual Report.

View the Report

Upskill for Medical Professions

Upskill is a one-week, immersive experiential learning opportunity during wintersession where students will gain hands-on experience and begin building skills in specific industries. Students will participate in a 4 day hands-on learning experience at Harvard Medical School with the MEDscience program. Participants will take part in simulated medical emergencies and learn new medical skills to encourage critical thinking, effective communication, problem solving, and teamwork.

Learn More

Preparing for the MCAT

Download a pdf with links!

I hope to practice medicine with humility, gratitude, and joy, remembering that it quite literally took a village for me to receive the opportunity to pursue my long-awaited dream. I am excited to learn not only the intricacies of the human systems but also the soft skills required to build trusting relationships with patients in the next few years!

Riley Choi ’22

Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

Trust the process! Applying to medical school can feel overwhelming at times. I remember thinking there were so many boxes I needed to check to be seen as a strong applicant. But authenticity will take you further than a million extracurricular activities. Find what you’re passionate about, and let that passion guide your journey.

Sahar Habibzai ’24

Tufts University School of Medicine - Maine Track

Our first class after the white coat is a mastery course that introduces us to the medical profession. It has been overwhelming to see all that I will need to learn to meet the needs of the people I will serve as a physician. This learning is not just the medical knowledge but the economic and structural disparities that face the people and communities. We have had a few patient conversations/interactions and every time, my heart just breaks to see how ill we(humans) can get and how lonely it is to be in the hospital. I hope this feeling never leaves me so I can seek to provide the best care every time for the people I will serve.

Oluwakemi Badusi ’21

Yale School of Medicine

Beginning medical school has been such an incredible privilege, and I am grateful for all my mentors, professors, friends, and family who helped me and held me while I was on this journey. I know it can feel so arduous and challenging in the moment, but on the other side of it, I am lucky enough to be able to say that it is all worth it.

Alex Reichle ’22

University of Mississippi School of Medicine

The start of med school is super busy, and your schedule will only become more packed as the weeks go by. Make sure you take care of yourself and put your health first. Establish a self-care routine, find a hobby that helps you unwind, and regularly keep in contact with your biggest supporters. You got this!

Eugenia Ma ’24

Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

iI there was one thing I wish could tell anyone going through it is to never feel like you have to go it alone. Whether you're just beginning to consider if this is a path you want to take or you're learning the ins and outs of anki for the MCAT, know that my door (and that of so many other sibs) is always open. We are here to support you!

Julianna Kenny ’22

The Pritzker School of Medicine. University of Chicago

After my orientation week (including our white coat ceremony!), classes have finally started, and it's been nothing short of rewarding and inspiring to learn about all aspects of dentistry. Although dental school can be rigorous and challenging at times, I truly believe my Wellesley education and experiences have prepared me very well. If you're committed to pursuing a career in dentistry— first off, amazing choice. And secondly, I wish you all the luck in the admissions process and hope to be a helpful resource!

Noelle Yoo '22

The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine

As a first-generation medical student, it's surreal to be living my dream of attending medical school. The journey has been tough, but the bonds I’ve formed with my classmates make it rewarding. The process of getting into medical school is lengthy and difficult but it’s definitely worth it in the end so keep pursuing your goal and surround yourself with the right people who will support you and keep you motivated.

Valentina Morakis ’22

UT Southwestern Medical School

The first few weeks of medical school have been a dream. My classmates are inspiring and the faculty is eager to mentor. I’m so excited to be taking this definitive step towards my dream of becoming a physician. I’m beyond grateful for all of the support I received from Wellesley from the first moment I started to consider medicine to the very end of my application cycle.

Solveig Stensland ’21

Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western

My journey into medicine as a non-traditional student has been long, but it has been worth it. Joining the medical profession is a privilege that is honored by caring for patients reliably, equitably, and unwaveringly.

Sophia Zupanc ’19

University of California at San Francisco

Medical school demands a lot from you, both physically and mentally. Although it's important to center your academic success during the preclinical period, try not to lose sight of the bigger picture. Whether through interest group meetings, patient panels, or networking events with physicians, constantly remind yourself of why you chose this career path and what it has in store for you. This has helped me stay motivated and counter feelings of disillusionment and self-doubt.

Sanjana Ramchandran ’22

University of Texas School of Medicine at San Antonio

There were many times along this journey where I doubted whether I could do it. In those moments, lean on your support system. Between my family, friends, and the Wellesley Health Professions team, I always had someone telling me it was possible, even when I felt it wasn't.

Evelyn Ruiz ’21

University of Kansas School of Medicine

The start of medical school has been so exciting— moving to a brand-new city, meeting lots of my supportive classmates, and receiving my white coat! The first couple weeks of school have definitely been academically challenging, but every time I enter the anatomy lab and get to work, I am reminded of why I want to be a doctor.

Fee Puertas ’23

Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at University of Buffalo

My advice would be to roll with the punches, whether it's taking gap years, stumbling upon exciting research opportunities, or even enrolling in a class that's way off the premed track. My own gap year turned out to be a real gem, and I wouldn't change a thing about it. Embrace change, because it's those unplanned detours that add the spice to your journey and give you a fresh perspective when you finally hit medical school.

Harshini Raman ’22

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Physician Scientist Track

To all my pre-meds who are currently going through the pain of studying for the MCAT, writing all the dreaded essays, or nervously preparing for interviews, remember that it shall all come to pass!

Rhoda Tano-Menka ’19

Stanford University School of Medicine

Becoming a medical student and walking across the stage to don my white coat was so surreal. The journey to getting here was long and arduous, but it feels insignificant compared to the privilege that I feel to finally be able to start my journey as a member of the medical profession.

Sartu Taha ’16

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine

What I would say to Wellesley sibs at any point in their pre-med process is this: don’t lose sight of your passion for medicine, but don’t lose yourself in the process. The classic saying goes: medicine will always be there. And it will! Make sure to ground yourself in your relationships and what makes your life meaningful outside of an academic setting before setting foot in medical school. You will thank yourself later, and be a better student/physician for it in the end!

Molly Mann ’21

M.D. Maine Track Program, Tufts University School of Medicine

It was so surreal donning my white coat for the first time, something so symbolic of the anticipation and hard work to achieve this moment and the incredible privilege of this next chapter. My advice for anyone going down this path is to follow your own timeline and ask for help when you need it! I would not be here without the support and resources of Wellesley mentors, friends, and family.

Zoe Matticks ’18

University of California San Diego Medical School

Every day I'm made aware of what a privilege it is to have a role in the care of a patient, and that as part of the next generation of physicians, I am expected to continue to improve patient care.

Faith Arimoro ’17

Medical Student, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

Whenever I felt overwhelmed as a premedical student at Wellesley, I would remind myself of what I was working towards: the privilege of caring for and supporting patients through one of the most challenging experiences of their life.

Tanvee Varma ’18

Yale Medical School

At Wellesley, I explored my passions, both in the sciences and humanities; I never had to choose.

Amina Ziad ’17

Harvard Medical School ’23

Register others’ opinions and advice thoughtfully, but also stay true to yourself and frequently recall your personal motivations for wanting to pursue a given career: this will shine through during the application process.

Liana Goehring ’15

NYU, MD/PhD

My advice to those applying to med school would be don’t limit yourself. Whether that be regionally or selectivity or what by whatever guidelines you have set for yourself. I had no idea I would be in Iowa for med school a year ago (I got in off the waitlist in May) and here I am.

Camilla Koczara ’19

Medical School Student at University of Iowa

The first few days I felt imposter syndrome beginning to creep back in. I was worried that maybe I wasn't cut out for WashU. Wellesley was academically challenging for me and I thought if I struggled in undergrad, what would happen in medical school? But I realized that overcoming those challenges is exactly what prepared me for medical school. And having the honor of receiving my white coat made all the hard work worth it.

Janessa Sullivan ’18

Washington University Medical Student

Living in an exciting new city, being surrounded by peers with the same passion, and having myriad new opportunities introduced to me constantly has been beyond wonderful — but most importantly, I feel truly prepared after Wellesley for everything to come in the busy but rewarding next 4 years.

Victoria Liu ’19

University of Pennsylvania Dental School

Medical & Dental School Advising

Step 1: Explore

magnifying glass

Begin to explore what it means to work in health professions, learn about Wellesley student & alumnae pre-health organizations, networking resources, and more.

Start exploring

Step 2: Prepare

Academics

This resource covers academic considerations as you prepare to apply for health professions schools, including choosing your courses, studying abroad, and what to do if your grades aren't strong.

Experiential Learning

This resource is an overview of ways to gain clinical experience, service experience, and research experience. It also discusses ways to discover summer opportunities.

Entrance Exams

Preparing for and taking your MCAT, DAT or GRE will be an important part of your application process. Successful students can expect to spend 300-400 hours over a period of 3-4 months preparing. This resource will help you to understand how to approach the exams.

Learn more

Self-Assessment

Are you ready to apply to health profession schools? This resource contains the self-assessment planning document, GPA and MCAT data, and information about gaining competencies valued in the admission process.

Assess your readiness

Waiting to Apply

Trying to balance academics, clinical experiences, community service, research, other extracurricular activities, hobbies, and relationships? Not feeling ready to prepare for your standardized tests or to tackle the application process? Not absolutely sure of your career path? Learn more about taking a gap year (or more) before applying to health profession schools.

Distinct Populations

A crucial topic in healthcare today is how to eliminate inequities in the quality and availability of medical care for ethnic, racial, social, and economic minorities. There is an urgent need to increase both the diversity and cultural competence of our health care workforce. Learn about resources for underrepresented students and alumnae across distinct populations.

Financial Planning

Application and medical/dental education will be expensive. This resource will help you to understand for the associated costs and direct you to resources.

Preparing Your Application

Learn about application components including: the Wellesley College Applicant Portfolio, writing your personal statement, choosing your schools and joint degrees.

The Medical Professions Advisory Committee (MPAC) & Letter Process

This resource will introduce you to the MPAC committee and walk you through the process and deadlines for your letters of recommendation.

Learn more

Application Components & Process

This resource covers information you will need as you write and compile various elements of your application. It also covers completing secondary applications & sending application updates.

Interviewing

Participating in interviews is a critical part of the application process. This resource offers information about interview formats, the question types you might anticipate, and ways to prepare.

Learn more

Next Steps

Health profession schools have varying timelines for notifying applicants about acceptances. Learn about managing applications, as well as what to do if you are not accepted.

Learn more

Calendar & Deadlines

Fall

Preliminary meeting with Health Professions Advising, scheduled through Handshake.
Complete Self-Assessment to ensure that you are ready to apply; make a plan to address any shortcomings in your application.
Once you have decided that you will move forward with application, begin your Applicant Portfolio.
Plan when you will take your MCAT, DAT, OAT or GRE if you haven't already. Register, create a study plan, and prepare for exam.
Begin thinking about themes for your personal statement.
Review finances to consider how you will pay for your application
Begin researching schools of allopathic medicine, osteopathic medicine, dental medicine, veterinary medicine, optometry, or podiatry.
Attend Application Kickoff or Watch the Recording.

January

Take entrance exam (only if ready)

February

First Deadline: Complete Applicant Portfolio Due to Health Professions Advising February 7 via the Request for an MPAC Advisor Form.
First Deadline: Completed Self-Assessment Due to Health Professions Advising February 7 (upload to the Documents page of your Applicant Portfolio).
Contact individual letter writers to ask for letters of recommendation. Talk to letter writers in person if possible to discuss your plans and goal.
After the letter writer has agreed, send them the Information for Letter Writers letter. Make sure letter writers are aware that the deadline is May 26.

End of February/Beginning of March

Recieve your MPAC Advisor Assignment. Share your Applicant Portfolio with your MPAC advisor.
Email your MPAC Advisor within one week of receiving your assignment to set up your first meeting.
Sign up for your MPAC interview when dates are released.
Recieve your Alum Mentor, schedule your first time to meet.

March - May

First meeting with your MPAC Advisor.
Have your MPAC Committee Letter Interview with your MPAC advisor. Your advisor will review your portfolio before your interview.
Check your schools to see if any require the CASPer exam. Register if they do.
Take your entrance exam if you haven't already.
Follow up with your letter writers to make sure they are aware of the deadline.

May

Applications open to be filled out.
Send official transcripts to application services for all schools where you have completed coursework (seniors and graduate students who are in classes may need to wait to send in transcripts until semester's grades and degree are posted)
Finalize school list.
Submit application (Osteopathic Medical School, sometimes MD as well).

May 26

Letters of recommendation from faculty and non-faculty are due to Health Professions Advising. Letter writers submit according to directions in Information for Letter Writers.
Recommendation Release Form due to Health Professions Advising.

June
Submit your application! Upload to your portfolio so your advisor can use in writing your letter.
Send in any remaining official transcripts.
Begin prewriting secondaries using previous year's prompts.

July

Secondaries come from schools. Check junk/spam folder for prompts.
Complete secondary applications in one - two weeks of receiving requests.
MPAC Committee Letters sent in by the middle of July.
First interview invitations extended. Check email for invitations, make sure to check junk/spam.

August

Interview invitations arrive. Schedule promptly.
Interviews begin.
Schedule a mock MMI/Mock interview with Health Professions Advising if you haven't done one already.
Practice self-care while waiting. For some applicants, the waiting can be the most stressful part!
Final Deadline: August 31 - Deadline to submit and request Committee Letter. Applicants who fail to submit by August 31 will recieve a letter packet, which does not include a letter from their MPAC advisor.

September

Interviews begin in earnest
Practice self-care while waiting.
First DO acceptances.

October-December

First MD acceptances October 15.
First Dental acceptances December 1.
Ongoing interviews.

January

By the end of January most schools have filled all their interview seats.
Applicants will cancel interviews, so occasional invitations will be extended.
Wait list applicants send a Letter of Intent to top choice school. For more than one waitlist, send a letter of interest to other programs.
Applicants with no interviews, consider options.
Speak with Health Professions Advising Director by January 15 if considering applying in the next application cycle

February – April

Interviews wind down.
Non-rolling admissions schools send acceptances.
Financial awards begin going out.
Second Look Days begin for applicants with multiple acceptances.
Anyone wait listed at a top choice school can send a final update.

April - May

Applicants with multiple acceptances carefully follow traffic rules on withdrawing from programs.
May 1-5 Schools start going to their waitlists.

May - July

Most waitlist movement occurs
Make your final decision
Plan your finances
Plan your move
Get ready for orientation!

For Prospective Students

The liberal arts skills you will develop at Wellesley— including critical thinking, problem solving, synthesis of information, and effective communication — are highly valued by health professions schools. Learn about health professions advising at Wellesley and the advantages and opportunities we offer students who are considering careers in the health professions.

Join the Health Professions Advising Facebook Group

Members are students and alumnae who are exploring or practicing clinical care across a variety of patient-facing roles, including: nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, medicine, physical therapy, speech language pathology, physician assistant, podiatry, pharmacy, and more.

Join the Facebook group

Health Professions Advising

Health Professions Advising

Health Professions Advising

Applying in 2025 for 2026 Matriculation?

Wondering Where to Begin?

Sign up for newsletters!

Office hours

Exploring Possibilities in the Health Professions

Preparing for the MCAT

Medical & Dental School Advising

Step 1: Explore

Step 2: Prepare

Step 3: Apply

Calendar & Deadlines

Fall

January

February

End of February/Beginning of March

March - May

May

May 26

June

July

August

September

October-December

January

February – April

April - May

May - July

Resources for Underrepresented Students and Alumnae Applying to Health Profession Schools

Contact