Catalina
What are some extracurriculars, pertaining to medicine/research, that would make me stand out to top colleges?
For context, I am currently a junior in high school and looking to apply for universities soon. Right now, I am a member of NHS, HOSA, Student Council, FCA, and FCCLA. I have a passion project where I have a team of 6 peers where we word together to gather unexpired, usable medical supplies from clinics/hospitals to distribute to low income areas in my city, as well as host fundraisers and drives for these supplies. This summer, I will spend three days a week at Washington University working (unpaid) at a Rheumatology lab and two days a week shadowing a doctor. I am also a state representative for a student-led nonprofit organization that teaches youth about the importance of CPR. I have worked two summers as a life guard and winters as a ski instructor. Is this enough for top colleges, and if not, how can I really strengthen my application extracurricular wise?
4 answers
Cynthia Thompson
Cynthia’s Answer
Congratulations! The experiences you've had and plan to have are truly impressive. You're on a great path to getting into the schools you want.
Top colleges look for students who take initiative and get involved, and you've shown this through your participation in various organizations.
They also seek students ready for leadership roles. Your work with a nonprofit and your roles as a lifeguard and ski instructor clearly demonstrate this.
While you don't need to choose a major yet, your passion for the medical field is clear from your project and your work at the Rheumatology Lab and shadowing a doctor.
Having worked in higher education, I've seen many talented student leaders. Sometimes, they forget to highlight their achievements in applications and miss opportunities.
I suggest you take time to list all your accomplishments clearly. This will help you stand out when applying to schools.
I believe you have a great chance of getting into your desired schools. Good luck with your career plans!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Catalina
Rita Chuang
Rita’s Answer
I hate to say this but my feeling is that most medical schools are looking at grades and MCAT scores. If you do well on these two items, then your activities are going to help you. If you score poorly, I don't feel like any extra curricular activities will help you. You will need to reapply to medical school to show your dedication.
Lauren Chen
Lauren’s Answer
James Hanson
James’s Answer
Having said that, universities and medical schools generally are looking for people who have solid core personal values and the desire to be lifelong learners who hope to accomplish something positive in the world. For medical school, that tends to mean they look for those who are dedicated to helping others as leaders who want to continue to push themselves to be excellent physicians. So, leadership, volunteerism, research experience, and well-roundedness matter. Of course one must primarily assure that getting excellent grades and completing all pre-requisites is the most important focus.