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What is your best advice for someone looking to apply to medical school in the next few years?
Hi! I am a rising sophomore and I am looking for advice on applying to med school.
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5 answers
Updated
Michel’s Answer
Great question.
If I was in your shoes I would be looking at getting some extra curricular activities in. Some really good things you can try to do is getting involved with pre med groups on your campus. Starting new interest groups that help out the community. Volunteering whether this is clinical volunteering or just helping out the community. Using the summer to work as a scribe or shadowing a doctor is very important. Ensuring that you keep your grades up. Medical school has high requirements and making sure you are taking care of yourself is extremely important. Lastly I would make sure to talk to a pre med advisor and make sure you have all of the classes that you need planned so you can make an easy transition studying for the medical entrance exam and matriculate. Great question.
If I was in your shoes I would be looking at getting some extra curricular activities in. Some really good things you can try to do is getting involved with pre med groups on your campus. Starting new interest groups that help out the community. Volunteering whether this is clinical volunteering or just helping out the community. Using the summer to work as a scribe or shadowing a doctor is very important. Ensuring that you keep your grades up. Medical school has high requirements and making sure you are taking care of yourself is extremely important. Lastly I would make sure to talk to a pre med advisor and make sure you have all of the classes that you need planned so you can make an easy transition studying for the medical entrance exam and matriculate. Great question.
Updated
Madison’s Answer
Plan ahead!!! Plan for what you need on your application and what timeline you need to do those by and how you can fit them into your schedule. i.e. when to take your pre-rec courses so that you are getting them done prior to your desired application cycle/year and while also not being overwhelmed, plan out if you will need to take any classes over the summer ect. Plan out some club/leadership involvement or volunteer work or actual jobs ect. Find a few small things and dedicate to those! Pick 1 research project and/or one club to be heavily involved in rather than spreading yourself thin and trying to be a part of too many. Plan out when you want to take the MCAT and when you will want to start studying for that (for most that is ~1 year or less from when they apply to medical school so usually your third year of college at some point.) Find mentors!!
Updated
Roma’s Answer
Great question!
I recommend putting together a list of medical schools that catch your interest, and then delve into their specific requirements, like volunteer work. This is a crucial step to ensure you're headed in the right direction!
Keeping your grades up in college is also key. Consider joining a pre-med group. This will not only enrich your application but also help you forge valuable connections and provide a supportive community of fellow students. Don't forget to regularly check in with an advisor to make sure you're enrolled in the right courses.
Embarking on the path to medical school is a big commitment that requires lots of dedication and effort. It may feel overwhelming at times, but remember to savor the journey. Most importantly, carve out a little 'me time' every day. I hope this advice is helpful!
I recommend putting together a list of medical schools that catch your interest, and then delve into their specific requirements, like volunteer work. This is a crucial step to ensure you're headed in the right direction!
Keeping your grades up in college is also key. Consider joining a pre-med group. This will not only enrich your application but also help you forge valuable connections and provide a supportive community of fellow students. Don't forget to regularly check in with an advisor to make sure you're enrolled in the right courses.
Embarking on the path to medical school is a big commitment that requires lots of dedication and effort. It may feel overwhelming at times, but remember to savor the journey. Most importantly, carve out a little 'me time' every day. I hope this advice is helpful!
Updated
Shane’s Answer
If you’re not already doing so I would work on building a network (people in this field) and get yourself a mentor with experience that can provide you value.
Build a profile on LinkedIn
Follow people on LinkedIn in your field
Shane recommends the following next steps:
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Emma’s Answer
For those aspiring to apply to medical school in the coming years, a successful strategy involves a combination of academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, and clinical experience. Maintain a strong academic record, particularly in science courses, while actively engaging in volunteer work, research, and clinical exposure. Dedicate ample time to MCAT preparation, secure compelling letters of recommendation, and craft a thoughtful personal statement. Research and select medical schools aligned with your goals, adhere to application timelines, and prepare rigorously for interviews. Financial planning is essential, and seeking guidance from advisors, mentors, and current medical students can provide valuable insights and support. Resilience and patience are key as you navigate the competitive and rewarding journey toward medical school admission.