Are activities judged relative to your year of application?

[Crash88]

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I understand that many factors in the application process are judged equally across applicants, such as GPA, MCAT, etc.

What about extracurriculars? I'm applying as a junior, but I obviously haven't had the time to do the kind of major activities (Peace Corp, starting your own business, etc.) that many of those who have already graduated have done. Do they take this into account when reviewing application, or do they put on blinders and ignore your age/potential time for experiences?

 

[Mattabet]

I think, in large part, they're not going to assume you just haven't had time to do something fantastic yet. If you look at schools like Harvard, the average matriculant age is significantly higher, precisely because they've had time to do really awesome things.

That said, these business-starters and malaria-curers are outliers. The majority group is juniors just like you; if you're competitive with your peers you still get accepted.

 

[lovedocta07]

i had the same question, im applying end of my junior year too, but i know of people taking time off that are going on medical mission trips, working as EMTs, publishing numerous articles, while i on the other hand am just taking summer classes and some volunteering.