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Preparing for Medical School, what should I focus on the most?

I understand that grades, GPA, and test scores are extremely important when applying for medical school, or anything medical for that matter. I also know that they like to look at 'unique' characteristics that make the applicant stand out, like taking a different major than the generic ones. And I also know that they like to see a 'well-rounded' applicant- one who works and helps out with community service while studying. My question is: Which one is more important working or doing community service?
Seeing as most of my time will be devoted to studying (and trying to keep a healthy lifestyle), I need to determine which is the most important to focus on. I'm just concerned that my application won't be impressive enough and will look, well, sad because of 'lack of effort'. #college #medicine #healthcare #application

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Thank you comment icon I forgot about this account and wanted to give an update: I am finishing my first year in Optometry school -it is competitive but when asking classmates about their applications they all told me something different. Some worked in practices as receptionists or techs, others did research. Some volunteered a lot and some not much. Throughout undergrad I was very involved on campus / studied abroad/ volunteered with different medical nonprofit organizations. test scores/ grades matter only to get them to open your file- you can be around average in terms of school standards. My advice looking back is to find things you like and get involved with that. The schools i interviewed at all appreciated my experiences and asked me about them. Just make sure you enjoy/can talk about it. Nellie
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Omneya’s Answer

Medical School Admissions care about your potential to succeed in Medical School and as a future physician. You need to prove that you can handle the rigor of medical school classes, USMLE Step exams and the stress of internships/residency.

Your grades and MCAT scores will prove to the Medical School Admissions committee that you are a good student and excellent test taker. You also need to prove your passion for medicine through your experiences in a clinical setting.

Think of being a pre-med as training to become an excellent medical student. Develop 1) the habit to study for 8+ hours most of the week, every week, and 2) the skills and techniques of applying your knowledge to treat patients (which is experience gained through shadowing, volunteering, researching and/or interning).
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Omneya’s Answer

Medical School Admissions care about your potential to succeed in Medical School and as a future physician. You need to prove that you can handle the rigor of medical school classes, USMLE Step exams and the stress of internships/residency. Your grades and MCAT scores will prove to the Medical School Admissions committee that you are a good student and excellent test taker. You also need to prove your passion for medicine through your experiences in a clinical setting. Think of being a pre-med as training to become an excellent medical student. Develop 1) the habit to study for 8+ hours most of the week, every week, and 2) the skills and techniques of applying your knowledge to treat patients (which is experience gained through shadowing, volunteering, researching and/or interning).
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Taylor’s Answer

Hi Nicole!

Super glad that you are getting into medical field! Its a super challenging field with lots of work involved by really rewarding. I asked some of my medical friends who are currently doctors or in med school. According to them:

1.) Grades and Test Scores
2.) Research
3.) Internships/work experience/volunteering

Grades and test scores are a must. Its almost an entry point just to be considered. Without this portion, getting into medical school is really tough. Research is another great area. Getting published and doing awesome research is a great way to get noticed!

I hope that helps answer your question! Good luck!
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Richard’s Answer

Whether you chose volunteering or work, make sure it demonstrates your commitment to the profession of medicine. Possible job options include EMT or scribe. Volunteering could be at a low income clinic or hospital.
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