Practical Ways Parents Can Support Their Pre-Med Student’s Journey
Vicki Hsieh Vicki Hsieh

Practical Ways Parents Can Support Their Pre-Med Student’s Journey

Pre-med is intense — and many students quietly struggle with GPA, MCAT prep, or confidence. As a parent, you want to help, but it’s not always clear how.

This post shares 6 practical, non-intrusive ways to support your child’s med school journey, including:

✔️ Helping them create structure (without micromanaging)
✔️ Encouraging smart use of GPA tools and gap years
✔️ Prioritizing mental health and knowing when to bring in a professional

You don’t need to be an expert — just a steady, supportive partner.

Read More
How to Stand Out as a Competitive Applicant—Even If Your Stats Are Already Strong
Vicki Hsieh Vicki Hsieh

How to Stand Out as a Competitive Applicant—Even If Your Stats Are Already Strong

You’ve got the GPA. You’ve crushed the MCAT. On paper, you’re doing everything “right”—so why aren’t the interviews or acceptances rolling in?

The truth is, stats open the door—but they don’t walk you through it.

In this post, I break down what it really takes to stand out in today’s competitive med school admissions process. From crafting a cohesive narrative to showing emotional intelligence in your interviews, we’ll cover how to turn a strong application into a compelling one.

Whether you're aiming to refine your personal statement or elevate your interview game, this post is for you.

Read More
How to Get into Med School with a Low GPA
Vicki Hsieh Vicki Hsieh

How to Get into Med School with a Low GPA

In this post, you'll discover actionable strategies to overcome a low GPA and strengthen your medical school application. From identifying the root causes of academic struggles to excelling in post-bacc programs and acing the MCAT, we cover key steps that can help you showcase your true potential. You'll also learn how to craft a compelling personal statement and apply strategically to the right schools. Whether you’re looking for advice on gaining clinical experience or navigating alternative paths, this post will guide you through the process of turning your application into a strong contender.

Read More
How to Address Red Flags in Your Med School Application
Vicki Hsieh Vicki Hsieh

How to Address Red Flags in Your Med School Application

Medical school admissions are highly competitive, and red flags such as a low GPA, low MCAT score, or an academic leave can raise concerns. However, these setbacks don’t define you. What matters most is how you address them and demonstrate growth. In this guide, we’ll walk you through common red flags and provide strategies to help you frame your story in a way that reassures admissions committees of your readiness for medical school.

Read More
Lessons from a Tough Match: What to Do If You Don’t Get Your First Choice
Vicki Hsieh Vicki Hsieh

Lessons from a Tough Match: What to Do If You Don’t Get Your First Choice

Match Day is full of emotions, and if you don’t match into your top residency program, it’s normal to feel disappointed. But remember, where you match doesn’t define your success—it’s how you respond.

In this post, I share tips on shifting your mindset, excelling in any residency, and staying focused on your long-term goals. Residency is just a stepping stone to your future success.

Need support during Match Week? Reach out to me for guidance and help during this crucial time.

Read More
From Doubt to Confidence: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Health Applications
Vicki Hsieh Vicki Hsieh

From Doubt to Confidence: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Health Applications

Imposter syndrome is something I know well, having felt it firsthand during my pre-med years. But over time, I learned how to overcome it by acknowledging my struggles, recognizing my unique achievements, and focusing on growth instead of perfection. In this post, I share the steps that helped me push through doubt and build confidence, so you can do the same on your own journey. Remember: your path is unique, and you’re more capable than you think.

Read More