University of Pittsburgh

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea important to you or others. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

The personal statement is your opportunity to communicate directly with the Admissions Committee. Applicants are welcome to submit anything that helps tell their story, being mindful and thoughtful about the quantity and quality of information shared. Share information not included elsewhere in your application.

What is something you would like to see change in the world? Explain why.

If you had 10 minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your TED Talk be about?

What does it mean to be "educated"?

Describe an experience where you had to adapt to a new environment (i.e. a different culture, situation, or way of thinking).

What made you decide to choose medicine as a career? Had you contemplated on choosing a path other than medicine at some point?

How do you envision your education at the University of Pittsburgh contributing to the refinement of your personality traits, both positive and negative, to prepare you to be a good physician?

The mission of the Physician Assistant Studies Program is to develop highly qualified Physician Assistants who will serve as collaborative leaders in patient care, professional service and advocacy for all populations. How do your background, qualifications, and/or identities match and/or support the mission of the PA Studies Program at the University of Pittsburgh?