Most candidates rehash their resume; the memorable ones tell a clear, human story that shows who they’ll become as physicians.

In Round 2 on personal statements, Chase DiMarco and Dr. Brandon Deason explain why story-driven beats accolade-driven, how to frame the future-you, and what to avoid so you don’t “stand out” in the wrong way.

They also explore ethical use of AI in writing and Dr. Deason’s Personal Statement Score Report framework, so your intro, narrative flow, and close all land with emotional impact.

What You’ll Learn

• How to write about your future self, not just past achievements.

• The difference between story-driven and accolade-driven statements.

• Mistakes that make your essay feel inauthentic or overshared.

• How to use AI ethically to refine—not replace—your writing.

• The structure of a high-scoring personal statement: hook → arc → close.

Guest

Dr. Brandon Deason - Medical Admissions Consultant, former Kaplan Admissions Program Director

Resources & Links

• Rounds to Residency Hub: https://meded.university/podcasts/

• MedEd University: https://meded.university/

• YouTube Playlist: https://youtu.be/Fp_MPdrvkiE

• Personal Statement Score Report Template: (Insert link if public)

• FindARotation: https://findarotation.com/

00:00 – Welcome to Rounds to Residency Ep 2 │ Make Accolades Count

00:35 – Why personal statements can make or break your application

02:10 – Brandon Deason’s background & experience with Kaplan

04:20 – Crafting your “Future You” instead of bragging about your present self

06:55 – What makes a personal statement stand out (the right way)

09:00 – Story-driven vs accolade-driven applications

11:25 – Common mistakes students make in personal statements

14:05 – How to avoid oversharing or negative stories

16:10 – Ethics and AI in personal statement writing

19:40 – How AI can help you audit your writing without losing authenticity

22:15 – Training personal AI models for writing improvement

25:30 – The importance of narrative flow and emotional connection

28:10 – How to write a powerful conclusion and show your future vision

31:15 – What admissions committees are really looking for

34:05 – Final tips for crafting authentic personal statements

36:10 – Closing remarks │ Connect with Dr. Brandon Deason & MedEd University

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