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The MSPE (Medical School Performance Evaluation) is an important component of your ERAS Application. While traditionally written by medical school deans or faculty members, some institutions ask students to write or contribute to their own MSPE. Let’s take a look at how to do this—and do it well.
The MSPE is designed to provide residency program directors with a comprehensive overview of your performance as a medical student. It generally includes the following sections:
As you begin drafting your MSPE, keep the following tips in mind:
The AAMC recommends including 3 Noteworthy Characteristics (NCs) in your MSPE. Each one should be 2 sentences in length. There are no published word or character limitations, but 50-60 words per NC is about right.
For each NC:
Focus on ONE characteristic OR two RELATED characteristics.
Include a strong, concrete example(s) of how you demonstrated that characteristic.
Example:
Passionate teacher: For 10+ years, Frank has sought out ways to educate his community. Whether giving horseback riding lessons to able-bodied and disabled children and adults, remotely tutoring high school, university, and medical students, or teaching in underserved middle school classrooms, his desire to help others excel has shaped Frank into a capable educator.
Write down a list of “impressive” things you’ve done. Think in terms of verifiable, hands-on experience:
Once you’ve brainstormed a reasonable list of experiences, think about each one individually, writing down a list of every positive characteristic associated with it (i.e., resourceful, adaptable, resilient).
Next, look for experiences that have the same or similar characteristics. The more “evidence” of the characteristic you can provide, the better! The more unique the characteristic and the evidence are, the better. Additionally, avoid choosing examples that are clearly presented in your ERAS CV and/or personal statement.
Ideally, your school will provide this information. If they are unable to do so, communicate with your preceptors to request their feedback. Alternatively, you can compose drafts of your evaluations for your school/preceptors to review and approve. These drafts should accurately reflect your performance during rotations, including both strengths and areas for improvement.
Ask a trusted advisor, faculty member, or mentor to review your MSPE and provide constructive feedback. Be sure to carefully consider their suggestions and incorporate them into your MSPE as appropriate.
Provide the MSPE to your school for review, and make any required changes based on their feedback. Once your school has signed the document, it can be uploaded to ERAS:
Remember, when creating your MSPE, the goal is to craft an accurate, comprehensive portrait of your performance as a medical student. By writing with clarity and honesty, you can create a compelling MSPE that resonates with residency program directors.
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The MSPE (Medical School Performance Evaluation) is an important component of your ERAS Application. While traditionally written by medical school deans or faculty members, some
