vcu essay

Virginia Commonwealth University: VCU Secondary Application Tips & Essay Prompts

• Cracking Med School Admissions

Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine is a popular medical school for Virginia residents. The VCU Admissions Committee love seeing students who have ample clinical experiences with patients and students who also possess humility. The VCU secondary application essay prompts change year after year. Therefore, our Cracking Med School Admissions team suggest that you  do not pre-write the VCU secondaries. 

Our Cracking Med School Admissions team has a track record of helping our mentees receive acceptances to Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, including the special fmSTAT program , a special program for aspiring physicians to get partnered with a family medicine physician mentor. The program also gives scholarships to selected students. Read all our VCU secondary application tips  below. To learn more about student life, read our blog post  Cracking VCU Medical School Admissions: Secondary Application, Interview, Curriculum, and Student Life

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Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2023 – 2024

Vcu secondary application: md essay prompts.

• You are approached by a neighbor whom you are friendly with and who knows you are headed to medical school. The neighbor wants your opinion on whether she should have her healthy 3-year-old child vaccinated against COVID. The neighbor is well-researched and thoughtful, bringing up data that suggests limited long-term benefits of vaccination, while pointing to concerning, documented side effects. How would you respond to this dilemma? Research on the topic is encouraged  ( Comments are limited to 2000 characters )
• How do you define “grit”, and how have you demonstrated this in the past?  (2,000 character limit)
• (If applicable) Please briefly explain any lapses in your undergraduate education that are not explained in your application.
• (If applicable) Please briefly explain any low GPAs or poor grades.
• (If applicable – gap year) If not addressed in your application, what are you currently doing now?

VCU Secondary Application: fmSTAT Essay Prompts

• Describe the doctor you want to be and discuss how a career in family medicine will help you achieve that. (2,500 characters max)
• Describe your concept of what Family Medicine is and tell us what specific influence led you to this understanding? (2,500 characters max)

Tips to Answer VCU Secondaries

VCU Secondary Pre-Writing Guidance: We would definitely not pre-write your VCU Secondaries because the essay prompts change each year. However, you should work on it immediately about you receive the official Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine secondary application. You can start researching about the school though! Please note that this is NOT the VCU BS/MD program’s application essays. For more information about BS/MD undergraduate programs, you can check out our website BSMDAdmit.com .

• Download  all  our HIGH-YIELD tips for secondary essays:  Cracking Med School Admissions Secondary Essay Guide
• Read more information about the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine admissions statistics here .

  VCU Secondary Application Tip #1: The most important aspects to emphasize in your VCU secondaries are:

• Academic readiness – if there is any doubt you are prepared for medical school, the VCU Admissions Committee gives you ample opportunity to talk about it. And, you should!
• Patient experiences – write about your clinical experiences. To stand out, you need to include at least 1 patient story in your essays.
• Research – if you did any research as a premedical student, you can mention it throughout your VCU secondaries. 

VCU Secondary Application Tip #2: Talk about any affiliations with Virginia. If you want to practice in Virginia in the long-term, definitely mention that in your VCU Medical School secondary application! 

VCU Secondary Application Tip #3: Tips if you have low grades, it is important to explain them. VCU wants to make sure you will thrive and succeed as a medical student.

Here are some tips to discuss your low grades:

• If you have poor grades, you need to give a reason WHY you had bad grades and also how you have improved over time.
• If there is a clear upward trend in your GPA, then you should point that out.
• Explain how you have learned from struggling in your academics, and how you will incorporate these skills learned throughout medical school. 

VCU Secondary Application Tip #4: Take advantage of the unlimited character limit to discuss your gap years. Be thorough and include all your endeavors. You can also incorporate how your gap year experience relates to what you want to do in your future career. It is also important to  write stories.   You should definitely include at least 1 story about patient care. 

VCU Secondary Application Tip #5:  Our Cracking Med School Admissions LOVES the fmSTAT program. We strongly encourage students who are interested in family medicine and primary care to apply. Read about the fmSTAT program to see if this is something that interests you! 

Essays for the fmSTAT program are included in your VCU medical school secondary application edits if you work with us on application packages or secondary essay editing packages . 

VCU Secondary Application Tip #6: Don’t forget to incorporate a little bit about “Why Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine” throughout the VCU medical school secondary application. Talk about projects and research you want to do at VCU. Convey if you want to do any projects in the local Virginia community.

• Read our VCU School of Medicine profile to learn more about VCU’s curriculum and student culture.
• Read our blog post why this medical school to gain insights on how to incorporate a strong “Why VCU School of medicine.” 

VCU Secondary Application Tip #7: We can help you submit a strong VCU secondary application through our secondary essay packages . Have questions about how you can stand out? Contact us below.

[ Read more secondary essay tips:  New York Medical College ,  Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) ,  University of Virginia (UVA) ,  George Washington  ]

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Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2022 – 2023

• The last couple of years have been challenging for us all in various ways (i.e., dealing with the impacts of COVID, social unrest and injustices). Please describe a particular challenge you faced. What are some challenges others may have experienced? What did you learn about yourself and others during this time?  (2,000 character limit)
• Please briefly explain any lapses in your undergraduate education that are not explained in your application. (2,000 character limit)
• Please briefly explain any low GPAs or poor grades.
• If not addressed in your application, what are you currently doing now? (2,000 character limit)

VCU Secondary Application: MD/PhD Essay Prompts

• Describe your motivation for obtaining a dual degree.  (3,000 character limit)
• Describe your significant research experience(s) and your role in any publications. (10,000 character limit)
• Describe scientific topics and/or labs at VCU that appeal to your future research aspirations. (1,000 character limit)

Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2021 – 2022

• Cultural humility is defined as a “process of reflection and lifelong inquiry which involves self-awareness of personal and cultural biases, as well as, an awareness and sensitivity to significant cultural issues of others.” Please provide an example of a specific time you demonstrated cultural humility with some reflection on the experience. (2,000 characters max)
• Please briefly explain any lapses in your undergraduate education that are not explained in your application.
• If not addressed in your application, what are you currently doing now?

Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2020 - 2021

Vcu school of medicine secondary application md essay prompts.

• You are living in a world experiencing the ravages of the Coronavirus which has impacted millions of people since December 2019. Please discuss how the COVID 19 pandemic has affected you personally. What have you learned from your experiences? Please discuss what you perceive may have been some realities that others may have experienced. How has COVID 19 experience influenced your desire to become a physician? (2,000 characters max)
• Please briefly explain any lapses in your undergraduate education; include any in enrollment during your undergraduate education and/or any gaps between undergraduate education and applying to medical school. (For example – poor grades, multiple withdraws, health reasons, etc.)

VCU School of Medicine fmSTAT Essay Prompts

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Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2019 – 2020

• Imagine that you are volunteering as a medical assistant in a pediatric clinic. Due to several walk-in urgent cases the clinic has fallen behind schedule about an hour. You are getting the intake information and vitals on a child when the parent becomes visibly angry and starts cursing about the amount of time they have waited to be seen. The parent demands that you get the pediatrician immediately but you know that she is currently doing a medical procedure in the next room. How would you handle this situation? (2,000 characters max)

Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2018 – 2019

• Medicine is a lifelong learning career where new understandings of diseases are constantly changing and new medications are continuously being added, yet motivating patients continues to be a stimulating challenge. Please discuss in 2,000 characters or less ways physicians address this issue. You may use resources to answer this question, mention them but footnotes are not necessary.

Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2017 – 2018

• Imagine that you are a volunteer premed working in a free clinic that serves a large immigrant population. Your duties include taking the patients’ medical history. Today you are working with an elderly patient who does not speak English and the adult son is translating for his mother. You notice that he is answering many of the questions for her without translating. During the conversation, the son tells you that if his mother has cancer he does not want her to know because the news “will kill her”. He says that in his family he speaks for the elderly mother and does not want a translator. How will you approach this situation? (You may seek help to answer this question.)

Virginia Commonwealth University Secondary Application Questions: 2016 – 2017

• Imagine that you are at a social gathering and your neighbor comes over to congratulate you on your acceptance to medical school. She goes on to ask you about your opinion on childhood vaccinations. She is worried about vaccinating her baby because of some of the things that she has read about vaccines. How would you respond to her? (You may use any resources for your answer). (2,000 characters max)

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VCU Career Services

Strategic enrollment management and student success, personal statements.

A personal statement is your opportunity to set yourself apart from other applicants. It is often one piece of an application process for graduate school, scholarships, professional school/program and much more. It is the part of an application where you can share who you are and what is important to you, so insert your own style and take advantage of that! Highlight and detail relevant experiences that demonstrate your interest, motivation, and preparation for the opportunity you are applying for. Use your personal statement to provide depth into why you are pursuing a particular academic/career path.

Types of personal statements

• A general, comprehensive essay that allows you to write about a wide variety of topics and experiences related to the prompt . This approach is often used for admission to specific types of professional programs such as medical or law school.
• Responding to very specific questions. Often graduate programs ask specific questions and your essay should respond directly to the question(s) being asked. You may also have multiple essays asking distinct questions. 

About the process

Brainstorming.

Brainstorming is an important part of the writing process and can help in the planning/outlining process. Below is a list of questions you can use to help create an outline, especially for a general statement.

• Why are you interested in your chosen academic/career path? Why not other similar areas?
• What are your short-term and long-term goals? How do they overlap with the opportunity you are applying for?
• What skills or characteristics do you possess that would contribute to your success?
• Why are you applying for this opportunity? (Do some research on it and be specific)
• How have your academic, life, and professional experiences prepared you for this opportunity?
• How have your experiences and choices influenced your decision to pursue your path?

Writing your personal statement

• Identify a theme that is specific to you and tailored to the application. 
• Start with a story to draw the reader in. There is no singular narrative path or style to write your story. 
• Take your experiences and develop them into more detailed anecdotes with reflections.
• Write a rough draft to get your ideas out of your head and into a document. Don’t worry about the length yet. This draft doesn’t have to be ready to submit on the first try. You will have plenty of time to edit and refine.
• Write different versions of specific parts of the essay or the whole essay. Try a variety of ways of telling stories and reflections.
• Revise, rewrite and repeat. Your final draft will never be "perfect," but you should be comfortable and satisfied with the result. 

Personal statement do's 

• Follow any instructions or formatting guidelines that are required.
• If there are no instructions or guidelines, use 10-12 point font, one-inch margins and standard fonts (e.g., Calibri, Times New Roman or Arial).
• Review for grammar and punctuation.
• Avoid using passive voice when writing (e.g., "I was able to volunteer during my spring semester" is passive, and "I volunteered during my spring semester" is active).
• Use first-person throughout the essay, but try not to use "I" too much. 
• Provide specific examples.
• Write a new and different personal statement for each application. Every opportunity will be different and you should tailor your essay to it as much as possible.

Personal statement don’ts

• Don’t use contractions. Personal statements are considered formal writing so you should avoid contractions (e.g., say "I have" instead of "I’ve").
• Don’t have run-on sentences. Break up long sentences and use appropriate punctuation to keep the essay flowing. 
• Don’t include filler/empty words to use characters or fill a page (e.g., sort of, kind of, very, basically, absolutely).
• Don’t include quotes from others unless it is a first-person account of a story (like something your coach or family member told you). It is typically a cliche overall, but especially if you start your essay with it.
• Don’t rely too heavily on overused or vague language such as "lifelong dream" or "passion."
• Don’t vary your verb tenses throughout the essay, especially when telling the same story.
• Don’t use the same essay for different applications. Also do not "recycle" essays. If you are reapplying, you should write a new draft with any appropriate updates. 

Editing tips

• Read your essay out loud. Read it backward (the last sentence first then work your way up the essay). These strategies will help you catch any awkward or clunky sentences. 
• Have more than one person read your essay. You will get different perspectives and types of feedback that you can combine into an essay you are confident submitting. 
• Take your time writing drafts. If you can always set the essay aside for some time and come back to it. 

Elevating your personal statement

• Focus on your opening paragraph. Aim to grab the reader’s attention and pull them into the rest of the essay. Sometimes it can help to write your opening paragraph last. 
• Address and explain any perceived failure, flaws or inconsistencies that you want to make sure are understood more clearly by the reader, sharing your insights to avoid assumptions  (e.g., poor academic performance, legal issues or gaps in education). 
• Do your research. If you are submitting your essay to an individual school/program, do some research to find out what sets the school/program apart from others. Also consider specific faculty, curricular highlights or program offerings that made you want to apply.
• Share unique experiences and reflections the best you can. The more distinct and tailored your experiences and reflections can be, the more personal the essay will be to you as an individual candidate, which should be your goal. 
• Personal Statement Guide
• Writing a Personal Statement
• Personal Statement Worksheet
• Personal Statement Rubric

VCU career advisors are available to answer your questions and review your personal statement. 

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You First at VCU

Strategic enrollment management and student success, focused inquiry essay.

"My name is Jamshid Forugh, and I graduated in May 2022 with a degree in Interdisciplinary Sciences. I drafted the following essay during my freshman year to provide a glimpse of the Focused Inquiry (FI) course for the next year’s freshmen. Winning first place in the essay contest, it was published in the FI course’s 2020-2021 edition of the textbook, Space and Place: Focused Inquiry I & II ."

"If you are a freshman, this essay is for you. My hope is that it will help you with your transition from high school to college. Starting the college journey is a significant moment for everyone, especially if you are a first-generation student like I am. Coming from a rough background and overcoming adversities to get here, I want you to realize the magnitude of this moment and how you can make the most out of it."

"Now graduated, I still go back and read this essay. It helps me appreciate how far I’ve come. I am thankful for opening the door for every opportunity college had to offer to me over these years. Therefore, I ask you to face your challenges head on and pave the way for others behind you to follow."

Tyler Edge, Class of 2024

Forugh, Jamshid. “What is Focused Inquiry?” Space and Place: Focused Inquiry I & II 2020-2021 edition, edited by Focused Inquiry Textbook Committee, Hayden-Mcneil, 2019, pp. 9-10.

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Don't forget the best writing resource on campus! Whether you need help getting organized, a second pair of eyes, or someone to help you get to your best final draft, the helpful folks at the Writing Center are available in person and online.

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VCU Requirements for Admission

What are VCU's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into VCU and build a strong application.

School location: Richmond, VA

This school is also known as: Virginia Commonwealth University

Admissions Rate: 90.7%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at VCU is 90.7% . For every 100 applicants, 91 are admitted.

This means the school is a nearly open admissions school. They accept nearly all students, so for the most part, you just need to submit an application to get in. But if you don't meet all their application requirements, you'll be one of the very few people who gets rejected.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

VCU GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.72

The average GPA at VCU is 3.72 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.72, VCU requires you to be above average in your high school class. You'll need at least a mix of A's and B's, with more A's than B's. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes. This will show that you're able to handle more difficult academics than the average high school student.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

VCU hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to VCU will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

VCU SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1165

The average SAT score composite at VCU is a 1165 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes VCU Competitive for SAT test scores.

VCU SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1040, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1290. In other words, a 1040 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1290 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

VCU ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, VCU likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 26

The average ACT score at VCU is 26. This score makes VCU Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 22, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 33.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 22 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

However, from our research, VCU is understood to superscore the ACT . We couldn't confirm it directly from the school's admissions website, but multiple sources confirm that the school does superscore the ACT. We recommend you call their admissions office directly for more information.

Superscoring is powerful to your testing strategy, and you need to make sure you plan your testing accordingly. Of all the scores that VCU receives, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all ACT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 4 test scores:

Even though the highest ACT composite you scored on any one test date was 20, VCU will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 20 to 32 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and VCU forms your Superscore, you can take the ACT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your ACT score is currently below a 22, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the ACT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the ACT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

VCU considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

This school offers nearly open admissions, which means they give almost every student an offer of admission. To be safe, you should aim for a 1040 SAT or a 22 ACT or higher . If you can achieve this, you're pretty much guaranteed a spot in the incoming class.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of VCU here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $70
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 2
• Social Studies 1

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes January 15 November 1

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 901 Richmond, VA 23284-9005
• Phone: (804) 828-0100 x0100
• Fax: (804) 828-1899
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in VCU, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to VCU.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than VCU. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for VCU, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for VCU, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If VCU is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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John1211 said: What are your thoughts on the school so far? Pros and cons of the area and student life? Click to expand...

• Jun 30, 2024

tzuyu&yuqi said: overall satisfied, i like the way the school has 2 week blocks versus a final weeks, most blocks correlate good to well with anking (i never used anking but thats what my classmates say), tests are fair, theres a new pre clinical course director coming in this fall pros: Cheap COL (compared to CA) everything medically related is in close proximity to each other has all the specialities in house 8 week summer break cons: hot and humid in the summers/rly cold winters (again this is coming from someone in cali) non-nbme exams OOS cost of attendence is high (like over 100k for tuition + COL) student life is p good from my experience, we pickle, play volley, have intermural, collaborate way Click to expand...

Mostly anecdotal but I was accepted to VCU off the wl last cycle with a Q1 Casper. Matriculated in a different school tho.  

• Jul 1, 2024

StratteraCapsules said: Do you know how they view a Q1 CASPer score? Click to expand...

• Jul 5, 2024

OOS Secondary received just now  

+1 OOS  

sprinkles1895

+ IS  

justanaverageguy

Can anyone post the prompts  

dizzylifeguard2001 said: Can anyone post the prompts Click to expand...

vacation-sedation

StratteraCapsules said: Using specific examples, discuss how your mission and values align with those of VCU School of Medicine. ( 2000 characters) How do you define “grit”, and how have you demonstrated this in the past? ( 2000 characters) Please briefly explain any lapses in your journey to medicine that are not explained in your application. ( 2000 characters) Please briefly explain any low GPAs or poor grades. ( 2000 characters) If not addressed in your application, what are you currently doing now? ( 2000 characters) Click to expand...

physics_123

vacation-sedation said: Do these prompts specify whether the 2000 characters includes spaces? Click to expand...

Ubiquinolenthusiast

+1 in state  

sensorimotorstage

Md/do applicant.

+1 OOS strong ties  

premed13579

+1 OOS. What do they mean by "were there any lapses in your journey to medicine?" Does that include gap years?  

ucsdgrad said: +1 OOS. What do they mean by "were there any lapses in your journey to medicine?" Does that include gap years? Click to expand...

+1 OOS How strongly does VCU screen secondaries? I heard they only send them to ~40% of OOS. Is that true?  

" You may use Pass/Fail or AP credits in this section if your college/university recognizes that these fulfill prerequisite requirements and are found on your official transcript. Click the green 'Add' button, check the 'Future Registration' checkbox, and manually enter the course name that has been met." I'm confused, am I supposed to drag and drop the already existing classes I have on my list from AP credits or manually input them as future registration?  

ClashRoyaleKing

Medical school applicant, barbiedoc07.

+1 OOS this morning  

After reading the very strict attestation against AI and other outside sources, is Grammarly bad???  

sensorimotorstage said: After reading the very strict attestation against AI and other outside sources, is Grammarly bad??? Click to expand...

mangostickyrice said: where is this info from Click to expand...

• Jul 6, 2024

ClashRoyaleKing said: Are OOS students able to qualified for in-state tuition after the first year? Click to expand...

tzuyu&yuqi said: Highly unlikely, you would need to purchase a house in VA in order to do so, or something akin to that, expect to pay OOS tuition all 4 years if u are OOS Click to expand...

• Jul 7, 2024

sensorimotorstage said: What if you have family in Richmond, decided to live with them, and switched your residence and permanent address…Would that work? Click to expand...

• Jul 10, 2024

Is 2 a challenge secondary?  

wysdoc said: 2024-2025 VCU Secondary Essay Prompts 1. Using specific examples, discuss how your mission and values align with those of VCU School of Medicine. (2000 characters) 2. How do you define “grit”, and how have you demonstrated this in the past? (2000 characters) 3. Please briefly explain any lapses in your journey to medicine that are not explained in your application. (2000 characters) 4. Please briefly explain any low GPAs or poor grades. (2000 characters) 5. If not addressed in your application, what are you currently doing now? (2000 characters) Good luck to all applying! Interview Feedback: Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center School of Medicine Interview Feedback Review of Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center School of Medicine Interview Feedback. Get the latest information, opinions of fellow students, and LizzyM and SDN Rankings. www.studentdoctor.net Click to expand...

bsajeev said: are you guys taking #2 as a challenge essay or adversity essay? Click to expand...

Is 1 more focused on how I fit their mission and values or more specific on why I want I'm interested in applying to them?  

ClashRoyaleKing said: I did! Click to expand...

bsajeev said: which one? adversity essay? Click to expand...

ClashRoyaleKing said: The define grit one. Click to expand...

premed123321

I used challenge, but I chose a version of my challenge essay that included a challenge that occured over a bit of a longer period of time  

premed123321 said: I used challenge, but I chose a version of my challenge essay that included a challenge that occured over a bit of a longer period of time Click to expand...

• Jul 11, 2024

bsajeev said: how common are full rides at VCU? Click to expand...

fish_bowl_cat

I have kind of a dumb question - what would be defined as a "lapse in your journey to medicine"? Does that mean gap years between college and medical school? or are they indicating a period of time where someone is inactive from both work and school? I understand that the wording for this prompt is different from the previous year's, and I'm wondering if that means the question is asking something other than time off during college.  

zigzagzinger

fish_bowl_cat said: I have kind of a dumb question - what would be defined as a "lapse in your journey to medicine"? Does that mean gap years between college and medical school? or are they indicating a period of time where someone is inactive from both work and school? I understand that the wording for this prompt is different from the previous year's, and I'm wondering if that means the question is asking something other than time off during college. Click to expand...

• Jul 13, 2024

medcarrot said: " You may use Pass/Fail or AP credits in this section if your college/university recognizes that these fulfill prerequisite requirements and are found on your official transcript. Click the green 'Add' button, check the 'Future Registration' checkbox, and manually enter the course name that has been met." I'm confused, am I supposed to drag and drop the already existing classes I have on my list from AP credits or manually input them as future registration? Click to expand...

stinkygirl203

• Jul 14, 2024

I have a question about their math prereq. On their website it says "6 credit hours of college-level math or statistics" but on their secondary it says "six credits of college level math/statistics". When I first applied, I checked their website and understood it as "you need 6 credits of math OR you need stat" and since I have stat, i thought it fulfilled the requirement. But now looking at their secondary app, I feel like it's saying I need 6 credits total. I only have 4 credits (from stat) competed in my undergraduate career.  

stinkygirl203 said: I have a question about their math prereq. On their website it says "6 credit hours of college-level math or statistics" but on their secondary it says "six credits of college level math/statistics". When I first applied, I checked their website and understood it as "you need 6 credits of math OR you need stat" and since I have stat, i thought it fulfilled the requirement. But now looking at their secondary app, I feel like it's saying I need 6 credits total. I only have 4 credits (from stat) competed in my undergraduate career. Click to expand...

Similar threads

• Apr 12, 2024

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Credit for Advanced Placement tests of the College Board

Credit for international baccalaureate diplomas and courses, credit for cambridge international examinations, college level examination program, undergraduate credit by examination or faculty-based alternative assessment, military credit, credits earned through vcu global learning education abroad programs, credits for dual-enrollment courses.

VCU awards advanced standing and credit, with qualifying scores or grades, for additional sources of academic credit. These additional sources include: Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Advanced, College Level Examination Program, military service credit recommended by the American Council on Education and the DANTES Subject Standardized Test Program. Students should consult the charts below for academic credit guidelines.

The awarding of credit is determined by the faculty. Faculty members from the relevant academic departments review the subject curricula, subject examinations, grade distributions and marking schemes provided by these examination agencies. After reviewing such materials, faculty members make informed judgments about what credit, if any, is to be awarded. Faculty members verify such judgments through feedback provided from student performance in more advanced courses at VCU. Once the faculty review is complete, the University Undergraduate Curriculum Committee provides a secondary review and then publishes the results by means of transfer tables in the VCU Undergraduate Bulletin indicating the examination, test score, VCU course equivalent and number of credits awarded.

In order to be eligible for academic credit, new students must submit transcripts and/or scores to the VCU Transfer Center before the end of the first semester of enrollment. Official transcripts may be sent to VCU Transfer Center, Box 842532, Richmond, VA 23284-2532. For more information, contact the Transfer Center at (804) 827-1349.

Note: The Virginia Commonwealth University Board of Visitors gives the University Undergraduate Curriculum Committee the authority to review these sources of academic credit as needed. The UUCC will report substantial changes to the board for further approval. (Approved by VCU Board of Visitors, Nov. 10, 2011.)

AP tests passed with scores of 3, 4 or 5 will, depending on the test, be considered for advanced standing and credit for the corresponding courses at VCU. The chart below provides information about the VCU equivalent credit for the various AP tests.

To ensure consistency, the VCU Transfer Center is the official credit notification point for AP credit for all university programs. Final determination of credit will be made after test results have been received and evaluated by the Transfer Center. Credits awarded are counted as credits earned toward the degree, but are not used in the computation of the student’s VCU grade-point average.

For more information, contact the Transfer Center at (804) 827-1349.

VCU credit awarded for AP tests

IB Higher Level tests passed with scores of 4-7 and Standard Level tests passed with scores of 5-7 will, depending on the test, be considered for advanced standing and credit for the corresponding courses at VCU. The chart below provides information about the VCU equivalent credit for IB scores. Contact the VCU Transfer Center if an examination is not included in the chart.

To ensure consistency, the VCU Transfer Center is the official credit notification point for IB credit for all university programs. Final determination of credit will be made after test results have been received and evaluated by the Transfer Center. Credits awarded are counted as credits earned toward the degree, but are not used in the computation of the student’s VCU grade-point average.

VCU credit awarded for IB diplomas and courses

The university may grant credit for Cambridge International Examinations comprising levels Advanced and Advanced Subsidiary offered through the University of Cambridge in England. These courses and examinations are administered through registered CIE Centers in public high schools throughout the United States. A-level syllabuses and exams cover approximately two years of college-level curriculum in a subject and the AS-level syllabus and exam covers the first year of the two-year A-level curriculum.

Cambridge tests passed with a minimum final grades of E will, depending on the test, be considered for advanced standing and credit for the corresponding courses at VCU. The applicability of such credit toward the student’s degree program is interpreted by the department or school in which the student seeks a degree.

To ensure consistency, the VCU Transfer Center is the official credit notification point for Cambridge A/AS credit for all university programs. Final determination of credit will be made after test results have been received and evaluated by the Transfer Center. Credits awarded are counted as credits earned toward the degree, but are not used in the computation of the student’s VCU grade-point average.

Students requesting evaluation of their Cambridge credits are to request an official copy of their transcript from the CIE coordinators at the student’s specific high school. Official transcripts may be sent to VCU Transfer Center, Box 842532, Richmond, VA 23284-2532.

The chart below provides information about the VCU equivalent for various Cambridge examinations. Contact the Transfer Center if an examination is not included in the chart.

For more information regarding Cambridge International Examinations, please contact the VCU Transfer Center at (804) 827-1349.

VCU credit awarded for Cambridge International Examinations

Class/exam exclusively offered at AS-level.

The College Level Examination Program is designed to allow people who have gained knowledge outside the classroom to take examinations and receive college credit for what they have learned. CLEP scores of 50 or higher will, depending on the test, be considered for advanced standing and credit for the corresponding courses at VCU. The chart below provides information about the VCU equivalent credit for CLEP scores. Contact the VCU Transfer Center if an examination is not included in the chart.

To ensure consistency, the VCU Transfer Center is the official credit notification point for CLEP credit for all university programs. Final determination of credit will be made after test results have been received and evaluated by the Transfer Center. Credits awarded are counted as credits earned toward the degree, but are not used in the computation of the student’s VCU grade-point average.

Procedures for new students

Students who took CLEP examinations prior to enrollment at VCU must submit transcripts and/or score sheets to the VCU Transfer Center, 900 Park Ave., Box 842532, Richmond, VA 23284-2532.

Procedures for continuing VCU students

• Students should obtain CLEP approval forms, information about CLEP general and/or subject examinations, VCU course equivalency information, optional essay requirements and CLEP applications from the Testing Center in Hibbs Hall, First Floor, Box 842500, Richmond, VA 23284-2500; (804) 827-8108.
• Students should discuss the examination(s) to be taken with an adviser.
• Students should schedule a CLEP exam at the Testing Center or at another site of their choosing. Proctoring fees vary by site and students are responsible for the proctor and exam fees. The exam fee is paid on the CLEP website.

Regulations for continuing VCU students

• CLEP credit is officially awarded only to students who are fully accepted into a VCU degree program.
• A student may not attempt a subject or general examination if it duplicates in part, or full, any VCU course or combination of courses that the student has already completed or enrolled in for credit. This includes courses for which a student enrolls but subsequently withdraws and receives a grade of W.
• If a student has earned CLEP subject examination credit, the student may not take a VCU course for credit that would duplicate the CLEP credits already earned.
• A maximum of 54 semester credits can be earned through CLEP examinations.

The chart below provides information about the VCU equivalent for various CLEP examinations. Contact the VCU Transfer Center if an examination is not included in the chart.

For more information regarding CLEP, please contact the VCU Transfer Center at (804) 827-1349.

VCU credit awarded for subject tests taken through the CLEP 1

Decisions regarding VCU equivalents were made in consultation with the VCU departments.

Recognizing that VCU enrolls students of varying backgrounds and experiences, the university provides its students the opportunity to accelerate their education through credit by examination or other forms of faculty-based alternative assessment (such as portfolio review). The maximum number of credits awarded by this process is 30 credits. The following outline describes conditions under which credit by examination may be given and the procedure for doing so.

• Determine which, if any, courses shall be available for credit by examination or alternative assessment. The student should check with the department offering course work in the area in which he or she wishes to take credit by examination or alternative assessment for a list of the courses so designated.
• Determine the types of assessments, standards of evaluation and evaluators for the courses so designated.
• Determine the qualifications for students to be eligible to take the examinations.
• Ensure that all degree-seeking students seeking credit for the courses, regardless of major or program, are provided the same opportunity to be assessed for credit.
• The examinations or alternative assessment, if available and approved by the department or program, may be taken by new admitted degree-seeking transfer students and any enrolled degree-seeking student during the fall and spring semesters of their first year of enrollment at VCU.
• Not have received a grade listed in this bulletin, including AU or W for the course for which credit by examination is sought. Also, the student should not have been granted transfer credit for a similar course taken elsewhere.
• Be a new admitted degree-seeking or currently enrolled degree-seeking student as certified by the examining department.
• Meet departmental and school eligibility requirements as evidenced by the written approval of the chair of the examining department.
• After consultation with the major adviser and within the first four weeks of a fall or spring semester, the student must complete the Credit by Examination Approval Form with the department chair. The form, available from the department, should be left with the chair when it is completed.
• Within two weeks, the student is notified by the dean’s office of the time and format of the assessment.

After notification, but before completing the assessment, the student must pay the university cashier the fee established by VCU for each credit being sought. As verification of payment, the student presents the receipt to the department chair before the assessment is completed.

After the assessment is complete, the results of the assessment are sent to the dean’s office, which notifies the student of the results. If the student passes the assessment, the course title, credits earned and the grade CR are recorded on the student’s permanent academic record. Credits so earned are applied toward the graduation requirement for total credits. However, these credits are not included in the computation of the student’s GPA.

Other types of approved credit by alternate assessment methods

• The interdisciplinary studies program of the University College offers a portfolio-based process that provides students the opportunity to earn up to six credits for prior learning. Students will enroll in a portfolio development course where they will generate a portfolio that provides evidence for one to six career-developed interdisciplinary skills: critical-thinking/problem-solving, digital technology, global/intercultural fluency, oral/written communication, teamwork/collaboration or leadership. (These skills form the foundation of the interdisciplinary career readiness skills minor, developed through the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ career readiness competencies.) The portfolio is then submitted to a panel of relevant UC faculty for assessment for an additional fee. If approved by the faculty panel, students will receive credit based on the number of demonstrated skills for IDST 450 . Students will not automatically be granted credit for prior learning. Students who wish to pursue this opportunity must be enrolled in the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree program.
• The Virginia Department of Education Seal of Biliteracy officially recognizes a graduating high school student’s proficiency as having reached minimally the Intermediate Mid level in two or more languages, most often English plus one other, by means of a nationally or internationally recognized measurement instrument. Upon receipt of the high school transcript with the SoBL, VCU will accept the Virginia SoBL at the IM or above level of proficiency for placement of incoming students at the 300 level of language instruction. Furthermore, upon demonstrating proficiency in the language by successful completion of a 300-level language course at VCU (with a minimum grade of C), VCU will award six additional credit hours (equivalent to the 201 and 202 levels of the language) in partial fulfillment of undergraduate graduation requirements. To earn the six additional credit hours for languages which VCU does not offer at the 300 level and above, SoBL students may demonstrate proficiency by seeking and earning upper-level course work credits in the specified language through study abroad opportunities and/or through course work from accredited programs elsewhere in the U.S. or abroad.
• The  American Council of Education National Guide  and the  National College Credit Recommendation Service  recommend college credit for workplace training and certificates. Both ACE and NCCRS coordinate evaluations of workplace training programs and certificates by independent teams of faculty to review program content, methods of assessment, assignment rubrics and examples of student work and determine the equivalent amount and level of academic credit at a college or university. VCU will recognize ACE or NCCRS recommendations and award transfer credit for workplace training programs if comparable courses are offered at VCU and VCU faculty teaching those courses approve those recommendations. Upon receipt of an ACE working transcript or NCCRS-supported organization transcript, the Transfer Center will forward the course credit recommendations to the appropriate VCU faculty for approval. If approved, the eligible credit will be added to the student’s record as TR credit from ACE or NCCRS.

The university may grant credit for formal military service training courses offered by the various branches of the U.S. armed forces as well as for acceptable scores on standardized tests. VCU also awards military credit for active service in the military. The guidelines for granting such credits include:

Service members and veterans of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Coast Guard receive the  Joint Services Transcript  as a record of their military training. The JST provides credit recommendations for military training through the American Council on Education evaluation process. VCU recognizes the ACE recommendations from the JST and awards transfer credit for military training courses into college credit as determined by VCU faculty if a comparable course is offered at VCU. Examples of the type of transfer credit awarded for military training are listed in the table below.

Service members and veterans of the U.S. Air Force receive a transcript from Air University (formerly the  Community College of the Air Force ) with college credits awarded for military training. VCU awards transfer credit from the Air University transcript as transfer credits according to VCU’s transfer evaluation guidelines.

VCU awards credits based on acceptable scores earned on subject tests taken through Defense Activity for Non-traditional Education Support, a college-credit-by-exam-agency. The DANTES Subject Standardized Tests program is an extensive series of examinations in college subject areas that are comparable to the final or end-of-course examinations in undergraduate courses. The table below lists the amount and type of credit awarded for acceptable scores as determined by VCU faculty evaluation.

VCU awards credits based on acceptable scores earned on subject tests taken through the College Level Examination Program, a college-credit-by-exam program. The table below lists the amount and type of credit awarded for acceptable scores as determined by VCU faculty evaluation.

Students who have completed at least one year of U.S. military service may be eligible for the award of 1-6 credits of military science electives (MILS). To request credit, military applicants are required to provide an official JST or DD-214. The amount of credit is based on time in service (i.e., consecutive months of active duty in the armed forces, terminated under honorable conditions).

One year: 1 credit for MILS 2XX

Two years: 2 credits for MILS 2XX

Three years: 3 credits for MILS 2XX

Four years: 3 credits for MILS 2XX and 1 credit for MILS 3XX

Five years: 3 credits for MILS 2XX and 2 credits for MILS 3XX

Six or more years: 3 credits for MILS 2XX and 3 credits for MILS 3XX

All credit given for years of service will be awarded to students not seeking a commission into the Army upon graduation. Students who pursue a commission in the Army through the VCU ROTC program will need to follow the United States Army Cadet Command procedures for completing ROTC requirements. These students will not be allowed to apply years of service toward MILS course credit.

Military credit will count toward the total credits needed for the degree but the applicability of such military credit toward the curricular requirements of the student’s degree program is interpreted by the department or school in which the student seeks a degree. Credits accepted are counted as credits earned toward the degree, but are not used in the computation of the student’s GPA. Students should consult the VCU Transfer Center for further details about the procedures for awarding military credit.

Credit is accepted directly from each of the above agencies. Service members and veterans of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Coast Guard may request their military transcripts be sent directly to VCU from the JST system online . Service members and veterans of the U.S. Air Force may request transcripts be sent directly to VCU from Air University.

Military students may request their test score sheets for CLEP and DSST subject exams from the DANTES website .

Transcripts and/or score sheets may be sent to VCU Transfer Center, 900 Park Ave., Box 842532, Richmond, VA 23284-2532.

Examples of transfer credits awarded for military service training courses (as reported on JSTs) based on ACE recommendations

(Additional credit may be awarded on a case-by-case basis. 1 )

VCU credit awarded for  DSST subject exams through DANTES 1

Credits earned by a VCU student through participation in education abroad programs appear on the student’s transcript, but are not included in the computation of the student’s cumulative GPA. See the  Global Learning  section of this bulletin. This policy became effective July 1990.

Qualified students who have taken college-level work while still enrolled in a secondary school may receive academic credit. Courses taken as dual enrollment will be treated as VCU courses or transfer credits according to the evaluation guidelines .

Approved by VCU Board of Visitors, Nov. 10, 2011. The Virginia Commonwealth University Board of Visitors gives the University Undergraduate Curriculum Committee the authority to review these sources of academic credit as needed. The UUCC will report substantial changes to the board for further approval.

Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, Virginia 23284 Phone: (804) 828-0100 [email protected]

All Bulletins © 2024-2025 Virginia Commonwealth University Tue Aug 15 2023 09:41:13 GMT-0500 (CDT)

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Writing Center

Strategic enrollment management and student success, personal statements, "i'm unique just like everyone else", personal statements from the reader's point of view.

It is surprisingly hard to think and write about yourself, so for many writers it can be helpful to think first about what readers want to learn from your personal statement and then about what you want to say about yourself.

The personal statement provides an opportunity for you to set yourself apart from the competition — to present yourself as an individual rather than a transcript or a test score. As a result, a strong personal statement emerges from your character and authentic experience.

However, many writers get caught up in talking about the experiences themselves and forget to explain what those experiences say about them and how they connect to the writer’s goals. In fact, the best way to show yourself as a qualified candidate for a program is by demonstrating mature and innovative thinking that comes, not from writing about the experiences themselves, but from the way you write about the effect these experiences had on you and the connections you draw between these experiences and your goals.

The following steps are designed to help you think about not only what you have done but also what that says about you and how that experience relates to your future program.

1)   What?

This is brainstorming time. Think about all the experiences that may relate to what you are applying for, there are obvious ones (volunteering, academics) but any experience can serve as evidence of your thinking ability and your strength as an applicant. Even failures can be good learning experiences, so don’t ignore those because you think it will make you look like a weak applicant. Remember that it’s not about what you did but how you reflect on it.

• Volunteered at a clinic
• Worked while going to school
• Studied abroad
• Struggled through a class

2)   Why?

Let’s face it, most applicants are going to have pretty similar experiences, so the key is how you interpret and consider those experiences. What does each experience show about you (your leadership, initiative, clarity of vision, etc.), and what impact did they have on you? What did you learn? What skills did you gain? How were you or your perspective changed? Remember, it’s not about what you did, but how you reflect on it.

Studying abroad in Spain made me realize how uncomfortable it is to speak a second language. I realized how much patience and encouragement I needed from others and myself.

3)   How?

This is the really hard step. Now you must evaluate how your experiences relate to your application. How can you connect your skills, personality traits, perspectives, and learning to your desired position? Spell out for the reader why your interpreted experiences make you a qualified applicant. In other words, how does your past relate to your future?

The inadequacies I felt while speaking Spanish not only helped me learn how to deal with my own weakness but also helped me have more patience for others who need help. Such patience is essential in medicine because as a doctor I will be consulting people who may know nothing about the body.

4)   Assembling the pieces

You will probably have multiple experiences you want to talk about in your statement, so you will repeat these steps more than once. As you interpret and evaluate each experience, also think about how these can be pieced together in order to present an accurate portrait of yourself. In other words, what claims can you make about yourself based on your experiences?

Plan on writing many drafts to get it right. Revision isn’t something that ought to be done — it has to be done.

Example of a partial personal statement

Over the last year, my experiences in and out of the classroom have solidified my commitment to become a dietitian. [ makes a claim about the applicant]   Last semester, for instance, my Medical Nutrition Therapy class merged science with practical application,   [ gives specific example of an experience to back up the claim]   allowing me particular insight into how what I have learned can be applied to help others.   [ explains how the experience helped the applicant chose a profession]   Our last case study of the semester [gives another specific example to further illustrate point] exposed us to nutritional problems associated with hepatic encephalopathy, and I was fascinated in the role a dietitian can play in intervention.   [ explains how the experience is connected to nutrition]  After the class, I was eager for more occasions to learn, so I set up a three-day shadowing experience with two clinical dietitians.   [ gives specific example that demonstrates initiative and intellectual curiosity]   The first case that the dietitian introduced me to was a 45-year-old woman with end stage liver disease and hepatic encephalopathy. Having the opportunity to connect the case studies I had read in class with this real and grave situation gave true relevance to the important work that dietitians do every day.   [ further explains how the experience led to the applicant’s view of nutrition]  As the dietician wrote up the nutrition therapy order, she began to discuss the composition of the protein necessary for the treatment. Excited to apply what I learned in class, I blurted out, “We use branched chain amino acids because they are metabolized in the muscle and can improve nutritional status!”   [ demonstrates enthusiasm and ability to apply knowledge]   I will never forget that experience because it was the moment when my future profession came to life. I knew I wanted to be a clinical dietitian.

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Change major/minor, add major/minor, and readmission to VCUarts

Important deadlines

Fall 2025 deadlines.

April 1, 2025, for the following majors:

Art Education, Cinema, Communication Arts, Craft/Material Studies, Dance + Choreography, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Kinetic Imaging, Music, Painting + Printmaking, Photography + Film, Sculpture + Extended Media, and Theatre.

Spring 2025 deadline

November 1, 2024

Deadline for change of major/minor applicants to Art Foundation, Art History, Dance + Choreography, Fashion Merchandising, Music, and Theatre.

The following Visual Arts and Design programs will review spring change of major/minor applications only from students who have completed VCU’s Art Foundation program: Art Education, Communication Arts, Craft/Material Studies, Fashion Design, Graphic Design,* Interior Design,* Kinetic Imaging, Painting + Printmaking, Photography + Film, and Sculpture + Extended Media.

*Please meet with an advisor for major-specific course limitations for spring admits.

Change of major

All change of major/minor applicants to VCUarts must submit a change of major or change of minor application online. This process is for currently enrolled VCU students. Current VCUarts students should speak with their advisor before submitting these forms.

This online application asks for your personal and contact information, current and preferred curriculum. Any required supplemental materials (audition, essays, portfolio) will be shared after submitting a change of major/minor request.

Students who have completed Art Foundation requesting a major in Art Education, Communication Arts, Craft/Material Studies, Kinetic Imaging, Painting + Printmaking, Photography + Film, or Sculpture + Extended Media must have their arts advisor submit the change of major request to bypass the portfolio requirement for these majors.

Students who have completed Art Foundation requesting a minor in Craft/Material Studies, Painting + Printmaking, or Sculpture + Extended Media must have their arts advisor submit the change of minor request to bypass the portfolio requirement for these minors.

Students with current majors outside of VCUarts may only apply for the Art Foundation program which is a prerequisite for visual arts and design programs. You must complete the change of major request and submit a portfolio in the VCUarts SlideRoom website .

Art Foundation is the first-year program required of all visual art and design (BFA) students. The exciting first year provides an intellectually rigorous, studio-based experience in the fundamental issues of art and design. The program exposes students to a vast forum of ideas and concepts preparing them for a wide range of disciplines.

Submit 12 to 16 works of art that you have created within the past two years that show your promise in visual art and design. Present your strongest work and demonstrate your potential to develop a diverse set of skills and ideas should you be accepted into VCUarts. We prefer to see a diverse range of 2D and 3D media. Drawing from observation is recommended, while copying anime, cartoons, graffiti or tattoos is discouraged.

• Images may be submitted in the following formats: JPG, PNG, GIF, TIFF
• Images can be up to 5 MB each
• Videos may be submitted in the following formats: MPG or AVI.
• Video can be up to 250 MB each. Each video must be less than 3 minutes. The total maximum time for all moving images cannot exceed 5 minutes.

You will be prompted to submit your portfolio through the VCUarts SlideRoom website .

Writing sample 

Prior to applying to major in Art History, students enrolled in a major outside of the School of the Arts must complete ARTH 103, 104 and one additional ARTH course.

Art History applicants are required to submit a research-based writing sample that makes a clear assertion about a selected topic and cites published sources to support your assertion. The paper may focus on a work of art, an historical event, a sociological phenomenon, a literary text, or other humanities topic. Your writing sample should be no longer than 600 words, including any citations. You will be emailed a link to submit your essay after submitting your VCU Change of Major Request, or you can submit your writing sample here after you have completed your VCU Change of Major Request.

Change of minor applicants do not have to submit a writing sample.

Majoring in Art History

Minoring in Art History

A minor in art history consists of 18 credits, which must include:

• 3 credits ARTH 103
• 3 credits ARTH 104
• 3 credits from courses in list #1 (details can be found by following the link below)
• 3 credits from courses in list #2 (details can be found by following the link below)

The remaining 6 credits may be any ARTH course at the 200-300 level open to non-majors (visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/azcourses/ for a list of all ARTH courses), however only one history of film class (270, 271, 370, or 374) can be counted toward the art history minor.

Of the total 18 credits, 9 credits must be 300-level courses. Only courses in which a student earns a grade of C or higher may be applied to the minor. A student may apply for the Art History minor after successful completion of ARTH 103 and ARTH 104.

Additional information for the Art History minor curriculum can be found on the Department of Art History website.

Due to the competitive admissions process for the Cinema Program, there are a limited number of seats available for change of major students. As part of the application process, you are required to have an information session with Advisor Martha Harper ( [email protected] ) before your application is reviewed.

Cinema essay

In 300-600 words, discuss your approach to creative responsibility and collaboration.

Visual storytelling exercise

This exercise will help us understand your unique voice as a storyteller, your cinematic eye behind the camera, and your attention to detail when following a set of written instructions.

Visual storytelling exercise prompt: Create an original series of 5-7 landscape-oriented still images, presented in a sequence that tells us a compelling narrative story.

Instructions

• • When creating your sequence, demonstrate to us your understanding of visual storytelling elements (such as: character, conflict, emotion, setting, props, costume, tone, style, etc.)
• • The images should be created using any kind of camera (cell phone, DSLR, etc.); please no drawings or digitally generated images
• • We want to see how you work with a camera, for this reason you should be the sole creator of the images
• • Small editorial adjustments such as color, contrast, and exposure corrections are acceptable
• • AI-generated/enhanced content or extensive post-processing will not be accepted
• • Upload your images in sequential order
• • Accepted file formats: jpeg, TIFF, png

You must submit your items via the  VCUarts SlideRoom website .

Note: you can upload your Cinema essay and visual storytelling exercise in any order and/or at different times before the deadline.

This is a track for Communication Arts majors.

Accepted applicants will begin their courses in the following Spring Semester, as Spring Admits. Applicants should follow the Spring Deadlines listed above.

You must submit a portfolio in the VCUarts SlideRoom website .

Personal statement

While completing the online application, you must include a personal statement. In this brief statement, articulate your interest in the Visual Effects minor, including a detailed anticipated application of the minor to your primary field of study.

Visual effects scene description

You must complete a 300 – 500 word-long visual effects scene description of an original scene, with a focus on visual effects usage. Scene descriptions will be assessed by the following rubric: plot, structure and creativity.

Inspirational filmmakers and/or visual effects artists

You must l ist up to five favorite artists or filmmakers that inspire the you to create visual effects and you must explain why they inspire you.

Five cinematic photos or one 1- to 2-minute video

• Upload items in the sequential order intended to convey a narrative.
• Work samples may be taken with any device (e.g., cell phone, digital camera, film camera).
• Photographic sequence/video will be assessed according to composition, lighting, story and creativity.

Minor is for individuals not majoring in Communication Arts.

You must complete the change of minor request and submit a portfolio in the VCUarts SlideRoom website .

Major in Dance

Dance applicants are required to audition for admission into the Department of Dance & Choreography. The auditionee will submit a short video based on movement prompts and exercises in improvisation, ballet, modern and West African, via the VCUarts SlideRoom website . An interview with the Dance faculty is also required.

Once your request has been submitted, applicants will receive an email from [email protected] with information regarding how to submit video auditions and schedule an interview. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please call the Dance department at 804-828-1711.

Minor in Dance

To apply to minor in Dance, you must have completed at least 8 credits of dance courses and have a cumulative VCU gpa of 3.0 or greater. No audition is required.

Submit your audition and schedule your virtual interview

A complete application must be submitted before you may submit an audition date.

Admission criteria

• Talent and potential as an artist in the field of dance.
• Prior training and the ability to demonstrate knowledge of modern dance and/or classical ballet techniques.
• Ability to demonstrate musicality and dynamic range.
• A healthy, physically conditioned body that is injury-free.
• Openness to new ideas and the ability to engage in creative problem solving.

About the audition

VCU Dance welcomes students with varying levels of dance experience to audition for our program. The audition consists of a warm-up, a barre, modern center work, an improvisation section and a short interview.

The following attire is appropriate: leotards, tights, unitards, bike shorts with a leotard or fitted top, leggings and appropriate supportive undergarments. No socks. No dangling jewelry. Hair secured away from the face. Please wear either ballet or jazz shoes in the ballet section. The modern, West African and improvisation sections are barefoot.

Fashion Merchandising applicants have no required supplemental materials.

Admissions Criteria

• Students from any department/major may request a minor in Fashion Merchandising, provided they have a 3.0 or higher GPA.
• Students intending to minor in Fashion Merchandising must apply and be accepted as seeking a minor in Fashion Merchandising.
• Students must see an advisor upon declaration of the Fashion Merchandising minor and once a semester thereafter.

The minor in Animation is housed in the Department of Kinetic Imaging and includes relevant elective options from majors across the School of the Arts.

The minor in Animation is for students who seek to combine technical and conceptual approaches to animation. Students can expect to gain a basic understanding of contemporary interdisciplinary animation practices, the history of animation and a background on the creative approaches to animation arts.

A minor in Animation consists of 18 credits:

• KINE 245 Animation Practices (4 credits, required course)
• ARTH 370 History of Animated Film (3 credits, required course)
• KINE 405 Animation Studio (1 credit, required course, offered spring semester)
• In addition, select 10 credits from the list of elective options, which includes a variety of relevant classes from across the School of the Arts

*please note that some courses may have prerequisites and may require an override or permission from the host dept/instructor

If a student takes 1-2 classes per semester, this minor can be completed in 1.5 – 3 academic years. Open to all VCU students! Acceptance is based on the review of the VCU Change of Major or Minor Application. A personal statement and a link to an online portfolio are required.

Personal statement: please communicate your experience in animation (if any), why this minor is interesting to you and how this minor will support your goals for learning and research.

Portfolio: the portfolio may contain still images (digital or hand drawn, not photo), storyboards, and moving images (can be motion graphics/animation). Once you complete the change of minor request form, you will receive a link to submit a portfolio through SlideRoom

Please take note of deadlines on  the application page , For questions, please email us at  [email protected] . Please note, admission into this minor is competitive. Consult with your academic advisor for degree progress questions before you apply.

The minor in sound design combines both technical and conceptual approaches to sound for video, film and stage. The focus is not on Music but rather on such practices as sound effects production including Foley, as well as field recording and voice over. The minor is a collaboration between the Department of Kinetic Imaging and the Department of Theatre and includes relevant elective options from majors across the School of the Arts.

A minor in sound design consists of 18 credits, nine of which must be at the 300-400 level:

• 3 credits THEA 333 Sound Technology
• 3 credits KINE 346 Survey of Sound Design
• 12 credits from the list of elective options

Any VCU student may apply to the minor in sound design and acceptance is based on the review of the VCU Change of Major or Minor Application and a personal statement (see below).

Personal statement After completion of the change of minor request , please email a brief statement (approximately 300 words) to [email protected], in which you articulate your interest in sound design, an instance of effective sound design from something you’ve seen (and heard) recently, any relevant experience in sound design and how the minor might apply to your primary field of study.

Audition/interview

Once your application has been submitted, audition recordings must be submitted in the VCUarts SlideRoom website . Instrument-specific requirements can be found on the Department of Music website . Applicants will receive a link to SlideRoom after submitting the change of major request . Once audition videos have been submitted, the music department will contact the applicant to schedule an interview.

The music minor consists of 18 credits distributed among the areas of music history and theory, ensemble performance, private lessons and music electives. All students must provide their own instruments (with the exception of piano). All students must be able to read music. Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in order to be considered for a minor in Music.

Voice minor Applicants are required to audition. You must play a short passage—at sight—on the piano and sing the same passage a capella. After completion of the change of minor application, students interested in minoring in voice will be contacted via university email. The student will then be connected to a Voice faculty member to schedule an audition. Voice auditions are usually held a few days before the beginning of each semester and at the end of each semester.

Strings minor (Cello, Classical Double Bass, Viola, and Violin) Applicants are required to audition. Prepare one composition or movement from the standard repertoire for their instrument no more than 10 minutes in length. You will also be required to perform scales. After completion of the change of minor application, you will be contacted via university email. You will then be connected to a Strings faculty member to schedule an audition.

Piano minor After completion of the change of minor application, you will be contacted via university email. You will then be connected to a Piano faculty member to schedule an audition.

Other instruments minor You will be asked a few questions about your musical experience and abilities during this online application. Once approved for the minor, Christine Hoffman, Academic Advisor for the Department of Music, counsels every student about the selection of appropriate courses based on the student’s competence and interest. Students interested in minoring in music (instrumental) should contact Christine Hoffman via email ( [email protected] ).

Once your change of major request has been submitted, please create a SlideRoom account ; answer all questions, including callback date selection; and upload your materials.

Options are:

• Friday, November 10, 12:30 – 5 pm (only callback date for Spring applicants)
• Friday, December 1, 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, January 19, 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, January 26, 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, February 2, 12:30 – 5 pm

Callbacks take place at the W.E Singleton Center for the Performing Arts , located at 922 Park Ave, Richmond, VA. The department will send more information in advance of your callback date.

At callbacks, Bachelor of Arts applicants come on campus to learn more about our programs, interview with faculty, tour our facilities, and meet current students and faculty. Parents are welcome to attend.

The purpose of the interview is to allow faculty members to get to know more about the applicant’s interests, commitment and communication skills. This interview is an important part of the application process. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their recent theatre activities, career goals, as well as personal goals and experiences. Please bring your resume to the interview.

Once your change of major request has been submitted (select “Theatre Foundation with concentration in Performance” as the major), please create a SlideRoom account ; answer all questions, including callback date selection; and upload your materials.

At Callbacks, applicants can expect to:

• Interview with faculty in their area of interest.
• Present their portfolio or appropriate audition pieces (details dependent on intended major).
• Tour theatre facilities.
• Talk with current students.
• All students participate in a group general info and Q+A session.
• Performers participate in group warm-ups.
• Parents are encouraged to attend, too. We continue with a parent Q+A session after applicants head off to auditions/interviews.

Callbacks take place at the W.E Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, located at 922 Park Ave, Richmond, VA. The department will send more information in advance of your callback date.

At callbacks, Stage Management applicants come on campus to learn more about our programs, interview with faculty, tour our facilities, and meet current students and faculty. Parents are welcome to attend.

The purpose of the interview is to allow faculty members to get to know more about the applicant’s interests, commitment and communication skills. This interview is an important part of the application process. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their recent theatre activities, career goals, as well as personal goals and experiences. Please bring your prompt book to the interview.

In SlideRoom, submit 12 to 16 works of art that you have created within the past two years that show your promise in visual art and design. Present your strongest work and demonstrate your potential to develop a diverse set of skills and ideas should you be accepted into VCUarts. We prefer to see a diverse range of 2D and 3D media. Drawing from observation is recommended, while copying anime, cartoons, graffiti or tattoos is discouraged.

• Video can be up to 30 MB each. Each video must be less than 3 minutes. The total maximum time for all moving images cannot exceed 5 minutes.

At callbacks, applicants can expect to:

Please fill out the change of minor form , and the theatre department will contact you with more information.

Readmission to VCUarts

All students applying to the Art Foundation Program for readmission must submit a portfolio that includes recent work made while not enrolled at VCU.

Students who have been suspended since their last enrollment at VCU must apply for readmission, submit a portfolio that includes recent work made while not enrolled at VCU.

Transfer requirements

Review requirements and materials to submit in your application to VCU.

Application requirements

Transfer applicants must submit a VCU application, found in VCU's applicant portal . Be sure to select the application for your intended term of entry (fall 2023, spring 2024, etc.) and your applicant type (transfer, readmission, reactivation, etc.) Not sure which application type to choose? Find out more about each option .

Here's what you need to know if you’re interested in transferring to VCU:

• Priority application review will be given to transfer applicants who have completed at least 24 semester (36 quarter) hours at their former institution(s).
• Transfer applicants should be in good standing with previous institutions attended.
• Transfer applicants should present a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 preferred from all accredited institutions to be competitive for admission to VCU.
• Transfer applicants with fewer than 24 semester (36 quarter) hours also will be reviewed on the basis of their high school performance and should submit their high school transcripts.

Application materials

Find out about the materials you'll need to submit with your application.

All applicants are eligible for test score optional review, regardless of GPA. Applicants who are able to take a standardized test and would like the scores to be used in our application review may still submit scores. All students will receive a holistic application review.

As always, the university will select applicants who present the strongest qualifications in scholastic achievement and potential, and through a holistic review of other evidence of potential including the strength of character. Each applicant will continue to be reviewed on an individual basis.

Transfer applicants must submit an official transcript from each previously attended college or university, including summer schools. If less than 24 semester (36 quarter) hours have been completed, applicants also must submit high school transcripts.

Official transcripts must be delivered to the Office of Admissions unopened and sealed in their original envelope (mail to: VCU Office of Admissions, Box 842526, Richmond, VA 23284-2526).

Applicants who are not U.S. citizens but are authorized to live and work in the U.S. on a permanent basis can apply for admission to VCU as degree-seeking, transfer students. In addition to providing all required application materials by the stated deadlines, permanent residents must provide a copy of their green card or other residency document. 

Option 1. English Waiver

 Applicants may be exempted from English proficiency tests if they meet any of the following criteria:

Option 2. Examinations and Test Scores (VCU's Testing Code: 5570)

If applicants do not qualify for an English waiver, they can provide test scores from one of the following English proficiency exams . All test scores are valid for two years from the test date. VCU's TOEFL testing code is 5570.

Supplemental materials

Undergraduate health sciences programs.

Transfer students who wish to apply to undergraduate programs in clinical laboratory sciences, clinical radiation sciences, dental hygiene and nursing on the MCV Campus should be aware that courses and credit requirements for admission vary for each program.

Applicants to any of these programs must submit supplemental admission materials, all of which are available online. Each program uses a self-managed application process and faculty committees to evaluate criteria appropriate to the profession. Please carefully read and follow all instructions outlined on each department’s admission information page:

• Medical Laboratory Sciences
• Clinical Radiation Sciences
• Dental Hygiene
• School of Nursing

School of the Arts applicants

School of the Arts applicants must submit supplemental materials. Visit the  School of the Arts transfer applicant page  for requirements and deadlines. For more information, call the school at (804) 828-2787 or toll-free at (866) 534-3201.

College of Engineering applicants

College of the Engineering transfer applicants must submit supplemental materials. Visit the  College of Engineering transfer applicant page  for requirements and deadlines.

VCU Honors College applicants

In addition to the application for undergraduate admission, all applicants to the VCU Honors College must submit an additional application and meet specific criteria as described on the  VCU Honors College website . For more information, contact the school at (804) 828-1803 or  [email protected] .

Transfer links

• Application overview
• Application checklist
• Application portal
• VCU Transfer Center

Important dates

Transfer to VCU

Find answers in our  FAQs

Have questions about the application process? Explore our frequently asked questions.

Honors College

Defining: Transformation

Our curriculum emphasizes collaboration, experential learning and solutions to real problems facing Richmond. 

Defining: Opportunity

We serve high-achieving students from all disciplines who want to discover their passions, connect with a diverse student body and make an impact in their community.

Defining: Engagement

Our students are active, engaged and contributing members in the VCU and Richmond community. We create a culture of learning from embracing academic diversity, small class sizes, personalized advising and more. 

Learn more about our campus and what makes Richmond such a great place to live and study.

Hear what our students and alumni have to say about the Honors College.

Learn about getting involved with Honors organizations and other opportunities

Recent News from Honors

• Three Honors College alums receive Fulbright awards for the 2024-25 academic year
• Honors College bestows honors to near record number of graduates
• Class of 2024: Honors student Alyssa Sievers turned injury into opportunity and found her passion for physical therapy
• Two Honors students selected for prestigious Goldwater Scholarships

Read More News From Honors

VCU Honors College

Aug. 30, 2024

42nd annual Faculty Convocation celebrates six VCU role models

Honorees included faculty members from the Schools of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, College of Humanities and Sciences and the School of Public Health.

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By Amelia Heymann

Role models of research, teaching and community uplift were celebrated Thursday at Virginia Commonwealth University’s 42nd annual Faculty Convocation.

“We have a faculty that is filled with great minds,” President Michael Rao, Ph.D., said in opening remarks. “But we also have a faculty that fundamentally is committed to using their hearts to help drive how they use their minds to help other people live their lives.”

He emphasized the connection between that faculty commitment and the learning and success of VCU’s 28,000 students.

“And that’s really important because these are the folks who are the next generation of society builders,” Rao said. “They might be the next generation of people who take communities from the bottom to the top of their experiences.”

Convocation was held at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, and it featured the following six faculty honorees for 2024:

University Award of Excellence

William L. Dewey, Ph.D., School of Medicine

Dewey , a professor and chair of the  Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology  in the  School of Medicine , has been with VCU for 52 years, joining the university in 1972. He is most known for his pharmacological research on the acute and chronic effects of opioids.

“William Dewey believes in the power of science to change the world, one discovery at a time, and in the passion, perseverance and teamwork that he has found at VCU,” said Aimee Grover, M.D., interim senior associate dean for  Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development  in the School of Medicine.

Dewey said his research aims to expand knowledge based on the work of predecessors, and for every discovery or success he makes, a whole team helped him, built from VCU’s impressive community.

“You can do anything with a good group of people,” Dewey said.

Distinguished Scholarship Award

Yan Zhang, Ph.D., School of Pharmacy

Zhang , a professor in the  Department of Medicinal Chemistr y  in the  School of Pharmacy , has focused his research on the design, synthesis and development of small-molecule modulators of neurological disorders and exploring their applications in treating substance use disorders.

He leads a team of VCU researchers from multiple departments in two large National Institute on Drug Abuse grants, which aim to put forward molecules for understanding the role of the mu opioid receptor.

Zhang said curiosity drives his research, and he has always been fascinated by how a small molecule can help cure many diseases. He thanked his teammates – including high school, undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students – who have worked in his lab over the past 20 years.

“Your energy and curiosity inspire me and keep me working every day,” he said.

Distinguished Teaching Award

Shelli Fowler, Ph.D., College of Humanities and Sciences

Fowler  is an associate professor in the  Department of English  in the  College of Humanities and Sciences .

“A great education also prepares you for what wasn’t on the test. That’s what English professor Shelli Fowler does for her students,” said Catherine Ingrassia, Ph.D., dean of the college.

Fowler said she is motivated by the opportunity to stimulate students’ intellectual curiosity.

“They need to be adaptive to have complex problem solving, no matter what field or areas or career they’re thinking about,” she said. “The goal of this is to create both critically engaged citizens and career-ready professionals, because that’s what’s required – not a multiple-choice test.”

Fowler recently piloted a new course, Reading Race, that introduces students to literature and essays in cultural contexts, to foster a learning environment that develops their understanding of the complexities of race and the history of racism. She said she co-creates a learning community with her students, broadening the depth and breadth of their perspectives in whatever their major may be.

Distinguished Service Award

Charlene D. Crawley, Ph.D., College of Humanities and Sciences

Crawley  is an associate professor in the  Department of Chemistry  in the  College of Humanities and Sciences , director of the  B.S. in Interdisciplinary Science  program and coordinator of the Emerging Scholars program.

The 10th child in a family of 13, Crawley said her fourth-grade science teacher made her feel like she belonged in the classroom. That motivated her to become a chemist – and to create an environment that promotes inclusion.

“Success for me means that I left people who were proud to be who they were and were able to perform optimally at what they did,” she said.

Crawley is a VCU alum, and her leadership on the college’s Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee resulted in the development of sustainable initiatives that strengthened the college’s commitment to equity and inclusion. She also has made an impact beyond campus.

“Dr. Crawley recognizes the importance of a mutually respectful relationship with the local

community and has led several activities supporting VCU’s community engagement mission,” Ingrassia said. “I can think of no other faculty who has provided so much service tirelessly and consistently.”

Outstanding Early Career Faculty Award

Xuewei Wang, Ph.D., College of Humanities and Sciences

Wang , an associate professor in the  Department of Chemistry  in the  College of Humanities and Sciences , has established an interdisciplinary research program that is recognized globally for groundbreaking science that could improve human health.

As a child, Wang said, he enjoyed drawing beautiful Chinese characters. Later in middle school, he realized that chemical sensors are as beautiful in how they can translate into diagnosing and managing diseases.

His research focuses on portable, wearable, implantable and microfluidic chemical sensors for monitoring health and diagnosing illness. Instead of using blood glucose, his monitors focus on electrolytes.

“While such research is highly interdisciplinary, VCU especially encourages and supports collaborations between different departments and campuses,” Wang said. “That’s how I converted chemistry to real medical devices.”

Outstanding Term Faculty Award

Marcie S. Wright, Ph.D. School of Public Health

Wright , an associate professor in the  Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences  in the  School of Public Health , specializes in coalition- and capacity-building for research through Community-Based Participatory Research approaches.

Wright noted that someone’s ZIP code can impact their health more than their genetic code. To truly address disparities in minority health, the social and structural determinants of health must be addressed. This includes where people live and whether they have a primary care provider.

“The goal of my work is to remove these social and structural barriers that impede people from living their best, healthiest lifestyles, as well as to empower the next generation of future health disparities and minority health researchers,” Wright said.

She encouraged people to embrace the challenge and reward of change.

“I believe in your potential to make a difference,” Wright said. “Continue to fight for what you believe in, and never allow others to define what success should look like for you.”

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