Americorp + Peacecorp?

[Araa91]

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So joining the americorp and peacecorp has always been a deep interest in mind since highschool. I've crossed paths with people who have done americorps; needless to say they were very pleased with doing so although they weren't pre-meds. And I know that peacecorps members say that it is one of the best decisions they've made.

I've been planning to do the americorp (1 year) and peacecorp (2+ years) after I get my BS in Biology when I'm around 22-23. Although I know it will make my resume look better, this is means nothing more to me than a bonus. Aggressive volunteer work such as this has always intrigued me.

So I figure, I would probably start the application process to medical school at around 25-26 if I don't do a masters program. If anyone has any opinions, experience, or information about this it is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[sylvanthus]

I think you need to figure out what in the world you want to do. First, you talk about PA school then medical school, now its americorps and peacecorps and then medical school, and also you toss out the possibility of a master's degree.

Pick a path and stick with it. Noone is going to be impressed by a multitude of random experiences strung together in no coherent fashion.

 

[Araa91]

I think you need to figure out what in the world you want to do. First, you talk about PA school then medical school, now its americorps and peacecorps and then medical school, and also you toss out the possibility of a master's degree.

Pick a path and stick with it. Noone is going to be impressed by a multitude of random experiences strung together in no coherent fashion.

Well we're past the PA school (not doing it). And even so it was just a thought that was never concrete.
Secondly, these experiences aren't as random as you think, they all strive out to help others. Now if I threw in climbing mt.everest and snorkeling with sharks then I can see what you're saying.
Thirdly, the ordered fashion was school (22), volunteer (25-26), masters depending on gpa (27-28), medical school (32+3), and death (?).
Much obliged for your input.

 

[horo1988]

Life is unpredictable, and your interests will change over time as you encounter more life situations. I don't know why you would need to plan out so far ahead.

 

[Dharma]

I think you need to figure out what in the world you want to do. First, you talk about PA school then medical school, now its americorps and peacecorps and then medical school, and also you toss out the possibility of a master's degree.

Pick a path and stick with it. Noone is going to be impressed by a multitude of random experiences strung together in no coherent fashion.

Not sure if I agree with the sentiment expressed here. Blaze your own trails. Finish what you start. Work hard. Follow your heart. There is nothing wrong with questioning a path and changing your mind along the way. Impressing people is overrated and certainly low on the priority list of what matters in life. If you work hard and follow through with things, you won't have to worry about trying to impress anyone. Some may interpret your path as non coherent... if so, that's because they have not connected the dots and who has time for those people anyway?

Plus, if you feel you need to experience life before committing to med school then go do it. I personally think it will make you a more well-rounded individual than the average med student who hasn't really had a taste of the real world. There is nothing wrong with experiencing life outside of academia first, if that' what you want. And as another poster said, you don't have to plan so far ahead. Have an idea of what you want, set some goals and make a move. Those that are closest on the timeline take precedence. Good luck.

 

[Dharma]

Well we're past the PA school (not doing it). And even so it was just a thought that was never concrete.
Secondly, these experiences aren't as random as you think, they all strive out to help others. Now if I threw in climbing mt.everest and snorkeling with sharks then I can see what you're saying.

👍 Yep. I think it's plain to see... 🙄

 

[Araa91]

Thanks for your input. Much obliged.

 

[robertch8]

I'm a former two year AmeriCorps member, and I have to say you really should think about why you want to service before making such a commitment and I would definitely not do it just because it will help you get into med school. It's not a part time thing and it can be very exhausting and challenge you in ways you would never expect. That being said, it was one of the best decisions I made but it really had little to do with med school and more to do with me personally.