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There are plenty of both. There are many opportunities to volunteer, either medically related or not. In particular, we have SBHOME, which is a student run health clinic for the medically underserved/uninsured. Pre-clinical students have the opportunity to volunteer, and are generally put on triage duty. They then accompany a clinical student while the patient is assessed and meet with the attending to present the patient and formulate a treatment plan. This is a very good way to get some clinical exposure. People can also volunteer at health fairs. There is an exercise program for children through the pediatric cardiology department, and plenty of other volunteer opportunities that I'm just not thinking of at the moment.
There isn't much formal time in a clinic during the first year. During second semester, 1st years are assigned to a preceptor and spend some time in a clinical setting. I believe 2nd years spend a little more time in the clinic than we do. We are frequently encouraged in specialty interest group meetings to throw on our white coats and hang around out on the hospital floor for a few hours to get a taste of that particular specialty, but I have yet to do that 😳.
Congrats on your interview, and good luck! .
Thanks for the info 🙂