For anyone applying to medical or dental school this summer (2022), for matriculation in 2023.

1. Complete the Medical School Application Data Form: Please fill out ASAP if you have not already done so.
2. Complete the Autobiography Form a couple of days prior to your Autobiography appointment. Please don't wait until the last minute - this is a lengthy document that will take time to complete.
3. Self-schedule an Autobiography meeting through Handshake. Meetings begin in November and must be completed by Feb. 1, 2022 for alumni, and March 15, 2022 for current students (but the sooner the better.) If you do not yet have a Handshake alumni account, please request a Handshake account.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Autobiography form/meeting and why are they required?

The Autobiography is meant to be a thorough, narrative description of your personal journey that brought you to this point. It will help the health advisory committee effectively discuss your motivation and background in the Medical/Dental School Committee Letter.

Who will see this form, and how else is it used?

This form is not intended for anyone outside of Haverford College, and is a first step in articulating your journey during the application process. As a document of self-reflection, you don't have to worry too much about perfect grammar or style.

That said, many applicants use this form as the beginning stages of a personal statement, and beyond that, for secondary applications. You will receive a copy of your autobiography in your email when it is complete, and most applicants use it as a base for several elements of the application.

Can I save and return to the form at another time?

Yes! This form requires detailed responses, and may be difficult to complete in one sitting. You may "Save and Continue" your progress using the checkbox at the end of each page.

What if I forget something, or want to add an experience that happens after I turn it in?

No problem. You can always email jbarr [at] haverford.edu any new updates, or even things you forgot to mention. Some of this may also come out in the autobiography meeting.

What else will we discuss in an autobiography meeting?

The meeting is very casual, and beyond your autobiography, we can discuss whatever topics are most important to you. Likely topics include application process and timeline, letters of recommendation, gap-year experiences, etc.