Are my ECs "adequate"?

[jmin]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hello everyone,
For my question, I'm mostly concerned about how my ECs look... I already realize they're not great, but would they be adequate for acceptance if my numbers were decent?

Note: I'm planning to apply to mid-low level tier MD schools and DO schools. (Absolutely will not bother applying to the really prestigious medical schools haha)

GPA: 3.75
sGPA: 3.6
MCAT: ???

ECs:

-9 months working as an on-campus English tutor (in both individual and classroom setting)
-100 hours volunteering at animal shelter (walking dogs)
-100 hours volunteering at hospital (some patient contact, but mostly boring stuff)
-40 hours shadowing docs

And I know I am missing research but I HATE research and would rather spend my time doing other things, like community service. But I'm willing to do it if it's necessary for acceptance...😳

Also, I'm missing leadership positions, but as someone who is introverted, not particularly charismatic, and kind of physically unattractive, I'm not sure how easy that would be to acquire. Just being honest.

Anyway thanks in advance everyone

 

[aSagacious]

You already nailed the two that I was going to point out: leadership and research. Aside from those, your cumulative hours are a bit on the low side. As difficult as it will be, try to do as much as you can before June to beef up those hours.

"...as someone who is introverted, not particularly charismatic, and kind of physically unattractive, I'm not sure how easy that would be to acquire."

I'm sorry, but this is not a valid excuse. Though your physical attractiveness is not under your control, the first two characteristics are completely yours to dictate and should not have any bearing on your capacity for a leadership position. I was (and still am) an introvert, but I manage to put on a facade when need be for the sake of academic success. As far as charisma, all you need to do is care. You're not here to make friends with everyone you meet, you simply need demonstrate the ability to act amiably in a variety of settings.

 

[jmin]

You already nailed the two that I was going to point out: leadership and research. Aside from those, your cumulative hours are a bit on the low side. As difficult as it will be, try to do as much as you can before June to beef up those hours.

"...as someone who is introverted, not particularly charismatic, and kind of physically unattractive, I'm not sure how easy that would be to acquire."

I'm sorry, but this is not a valid excuse. Though your physical attractiveness is not under your control, the first two characteristics are completely yours to dictate and should not have any bearing on your capacity for a leadership position. I was (and still am) an introvert, but I manage to put on a facade when need be for the sake of academic success. As far as charisma, all you need to do is care. You're not here to make friends with everyone you meet, you simply need demonstrate the ability to act amiably in a variety of settings.

I already do put on a facade when I'm volunteering and whatnot. I'm not especially charismatic but I'm friendly, I can joke around and talk about anything with most people when I want to. I'm also working out/eating healthy now which should help on the physical front. But I still don't think I can get a leadership position right now, but I am keeping my eyes open.👍

I will increase my volunteer hours for sure though.