Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a hot topic in the field of medical school admissions as schools continue to look for ways to streamline and enhance the admissions process. In a recent webinar, a panel of experts discussed the potential impact of AI on medical school admissions, focusing on its use in essay writing and other components of the application. Here are some key takeaways from their discussion.

1. Use AI to Assist, Not Replace

The panelists agreed that AI should be used to assist applicants in the admissions process, not to replace human judgment. AI can be used to help applicants improve their writing skills and better communicate their ideas, but it should not be used to write essays for them. Authenticity is still highly valued in the college admissions process, and applicants who use AI to misrepresent themselves or plagiarize will likely be caught and face consequences.

2. Each School Has its Unique Mission

The experts noted that each medical school has its own unique mission and values, and selects candidates accordingly. While some schools may be more open to using AI than others, the use of AI in the admissions process is not yet fully adopted. However, there are tools and technology available to filter applications based on certain criteria.

3. Holistic Review of Applications

Admissions committees take a holistic approach to reviewing applications, considering multiple factors such as MCAT scores, undergraduate GPA, and experiences in the medical profession. The goal of the admissions process is not just to maximize the number of acceptances, but to help everyone achieve their optimal outcome and goals. Admissions committees are looking for students who will thrive in their environment and benefit from being there, not just those who fit a certain mold.

4. Responsible Use of AI Tools

While the ethical use of AI tools can help level the playing field for applicants, it is important for applicants to use these tools responsibly. Applicants should not engage in misrepresentation or plagiarism, and should not use AI tools to write their essays. The most important thing is for applicants to bring out their authentic selves and show their passion in their writing and interviews.

The experts also discussed the potential impact of AI on students applying to medical school, noting that some students may try to use AI to their advantage in the admissions process. However, they agreed that the use of AI is unlikely to result in major changes to the admissions process, and that the paper from NYU may prompt rethinking of the vetting process for applicants.

5. Potential Benefits and Drawbacks of AI Assistance

The panelists discussed the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI to assist with the essay writing component of the application. Some potential benefits of AI assistance include increased equity and accessibility for students who may not have access to other resources. However, potential drawbacks include concerns about plagiarism and authenticity. The panelists noted that the policies around AI assistance in the application process are likely to vary among different medical schools, and it will be incumbent upon applicants to know and follow the policies of each school they apply to.

6. The Use of AI Chatbots

AI chatbots could be used to create personal statements, supplemental essays, and activity responses, and that applicants are likely to be interested in how schools will use AI in the admissions process. The use of AI chatbots could help applicants save time and effort in crafting their responses, while still ensuring that their essays are authentic and represent their own voices.