God’s Grace in My Gap Year: What I Learned Between Applications

I took a three-year gap between undergrad and medical school, what I now call my growth years. At first, I thought the gap was just about retaking the MCAT. But looking back, I realize God was reshaping not only my application but me.

During that time, I discovered the kind of physician I wanted to be; someone deeply connected to people, grounded in faith, and committed to serving underserved communities. I also learned what it means to truly rely on God. Not in a “say a quick prayer and keep pushing” kind of way, but a deep, vulnerable, let-go-of-control way.

One of the most unexpected gifts of that season was learning how to lean on Christian community. I started opening up to friends about my struggles, asking for prayer, and letting myself be supported. It made all the difference.

My main goal during that time was to improve my MCAT score. The first time, I studied for a few weeks without much structure. The second time, I got serious: I created a strict schedule, got a tutor, and studied in the library with a friend preparing for the Bar exam. We held each other accountable, which helped me stay focused.

Most importantly, I shifted how I studied. Instead of obsessing over content, I prioritized practice questions. I learned to slow down, analyze my mistakes, and ask: “Why did I choose the wrong answer?” and “What made the right one correct?”

I remember praying, “God, just give me the score I need to get in.” I wasn’t asking for perfection, just progress.

The second time I applied, I was also much wiser about where I applied. The first time, I picked schools based on name recognition, skipped over DO programs, and didn’t pay much attention to school missions. The second time, I focused on programs aligned with my values; community-based, service-oriented, and committed to health equity.

In the end, God opened a door I never expected: Miami. I never imagined myself going to medical school in South Florida, but it’s exactly where I was meant to be.

I often think of Isaiah 55:8-9:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

If you’re in a waiting season, be encouraged: God wastes nothing. Even the gap years are full of grace.