do I need more research experience?

[dillpicklechips]

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I had taken a 4 year break from undergrad and I'm returning to finish my degree and apply Spring 2027 cycle. During my break, I only worked full time (no ECs). In 2021, I had research that resulted in 2 mid author pubs and hundreds of hours of experience. Since it will be almost a 6 year old experience by the time I apply, should I look to do research again?

 

[stew_md]

If a big reason why you want to be a doctor is doing research, then maybe hopping back into a lab would be helpful. However, you should make sure the other areas of your application are up to par as well. Make sure you have enough non-clinical volunteering and clinical experience as well, these are areas I have noticed many applicants have fallen short. With a 4 year period of being non-premed, admissions committees may wonder why. It might be a good idea to get back into all ECs in some form or another, having a balance between research, volunteering, shadowing, and clinical experience to show commitment.