In this State of the Union episode of GradMissions Office Hours, Autumn and Lizanne break down exactly where applicants stand in the current med school and law school cycles—and what smart next moves look like at every stage.

They walk through four key groups: current med school applicants, current law school applicants, future med applicants, and future law applicants. From interview timelines and late-cycle reality checks to MCAT and LSAT prep strategy, coursework decisions, extracurricular planning, and hands-on clinical or legal experience, this episode is a candid, tactical roadmap for anyone navigating—or preparing for—the admissions process.

You’ll hear honest guidance on when it’s time to add schools, when waiting is costing you money and scholarships, why biochemistry and statistics matter more than most students realize, and how intentional experiences (not cramming or panic-applying) lead to stronger applications. The episode closes with a look at how strategic planning, reflection, and support can change not just outcomes—but confidence going into your 1L or MS1 year.