Profile Link: https://acceptedtogether.com/consultants/Ashley%28MD%29

Q1:What is your position and at which institution?

PGY4 Emergency Medicine Resident at LAC+USC Medical Center

Q2: Tell us a bit about yourself!

Unconventional applicant turned stellar Emergency Room physician. Former nurse with a lifelong desire to pursue medicine who is so grateful to be making her dreams come true. Single mama, surfer, snowboarder, adventurer.

Q3: What’s one thing that others may not know about you? 

I used to be a competitive violinist in high school.

Q4: If you didn’t go into the field you are in right now, what field would you have gone into?

Reiki instructor or professional traveler

Q5: What is the most difficult interview question in your opinion?

Tell us about yourself in just one sentence.

Q6: What do you think contributed the most to your success?

Diligence, efficient study/life routines, balancing hard work with amazing play, learning how to highlight my strengths, constantly working on communication.

Q7: What was your application journey like? 

I applied broadly to nearly 50 medical schools when I applied. I got offered exactly ONE interview! Thankfully I got accepted. I worked hard, did well, and honored in all of my rotations. Then when it came time for residency applications, I was able to be far more selective, and got offered EVERY SINGLE INTERVIEW I applied for. I matched at my #1 choice Emergency Medicine Program. All this to say, your numbers aren’t a reflection of your value or capability, but more the huge number of med school applicants. This is why it’s so vital to find ways to shine and stand out.

Q8: What services do you offer? 

I offer application and personal statement editing/feedback, interview prep including mock interview practices, mcat and board preparation tips, and guidance on how to be the most successful, thriving medical student and resident.

Q9: What’s your biggest tip for students applying to your field? 

Make sure you’re doing it for you, keep trying, and don’t let metrics be your only focus. Have fun doing it, and make sure to ask advice from people you admire.

Q10: Why should students choose you as their consultant?

I can help both nontraditional and traditional applicants showcase themselves in a way that makes them stand out. I give honest feedback and my goal is to help you on your journey in the best way possible, not to just tell you what you want to hear. Having a prior career and juggling life as a single mother through this process has given me a unique angle on advising on time management and efficiency. And I can teach you how to snowboard and surf 🙂