Hey, everyone! I’m finally getting to the college activities post! Sorry for the delay! But it’s here! When applying to medical school, admission committees like to see that you were involved in other activities besides school. It is important to have non-clinical experience on your application, because it demonstrates that there is more to you than just grades and test scores. Participating in extracurricular activities also exhibits vital characteristics of physicians such as leadership, team skills, dedication, passion, work ethic, etc. I decided to put together some extra-curricular activities to give you all an idea of what you can do while in undergrad. Here are 5 activities you can become active in this semester!
Volunteering – My university had an organization through which you could sign up for different volunteering opportunities. The volunteering opportunities included mentoring programs, tutoring, animal shelters, housing improvement, etc. I did not use these services and instead volunteered through various clubs, which I will talk about next. Being so convenient, I wish I had utilized these services, but I did manage to find volunteering elsewhere. Volunteering is important to your medical school application, because it shows that you have passion for helping people. In order to care for people as a physician, you must love helping other people. The admissions committee must see this through your application.
Clubs – I participated in a total of three clubs, two of which I remained extremely active. There are usually a lot of pre-medical clubs to join at universities. I ended up joining a minority pre-med club with which I had connections. After my first semester of being a member, I found it difficult to keep my membership, since there were a bunch of activities involved, and I was still adjusting to college. I also decided to become involved in a Christian club known as Chi Alpha. I felt this was necessary for my mental health and religion. It helped me to maintain my relationship with God and meet like-minded people. Additionally, I obtained volunteering experience through Chi Alpha’s spring break trips. I was able to spend this time volunteering with the Atlanta Dream Center. After adapting to the college atmosphere, I joined the Native American Student Union. I absolutely loved being a part of this club, because I learned so much about the people and culture. It also felt amazing to raise awareness about the issues they face in America. I gained an executive position in this club, which I hope demonstrates leadership on my application.
Shadowing – I have an entire post on this here. You should contact your local hospital/clinic or get in touch with pre-health advisors to see how you can gain shadowing experience.
Research – I contacted my favorite TA and asked her if I could assist her with any research projects. She ended up hiring me as a research assistant, which I was not expecting! It was the best experience! I learned how to translate data in my major, transcribe interviews, and analyze and compile the data for the results. I enjoyed working with her, and she has been one of the most supportive people during my journey. Research is an excellent way to gain experience and insight on a certain topic or major, especially medicine. Medicine is best understood through scientific processes, with which you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal. You may also earn a letter of recommendation for your application.
Study Abroad – Oh, how I wish I had taken the opportunity to study abroad. If you are given the opportunity to study abroad, even if it’s only for a few weeks, take it! You will be able to experience life in another country and will learn so much about the culture. I unfortunately had the opportunity and decided not to take it. I wish I had gone. You live and you learn. Now, I will take any opportunity to travel!
Take these ideas and go conquer the semester! And remember,
Thanks for visiting my blog! Be sure to check out my other posts. More to come soon! Until then be kind and remember tomorrow depends on what you do today. Hope you enjoyed reading! — Taylor ❤
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