Extra-curriculars

[TheLivingMed]

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Hello everybody, I'm a newbie to the boards and am actually a newbie to the whole pre-med life. I just completed my first semester and was wondering about extra-curriculars, etc. I was wondering what are some of the best clubs, organizations, etc. that I could be a part of. I'm looking to get the full experience plus preparation for my future and I'm sure it only helps when the time comes for medical schools to look at you and your accomplishments. What do you suggest and what did/are you do(ing)? Thanks in advance.

 

[ADeadLois]

The only extracurricular that is standard some sort of clinical experience with patient interaction (although there are many different ways of doing this). From there, extracurriculars that give you some sort of leadership experience or highlight a unique talent or interest are good.

 

[moe_4eva]

I think that the most important thing is to find something that you enjoy. Don't just go through the steps because you have to, that doesn't show who you are as an applicant.

If you enjoy volunteering at a homeless clinic, do that. If you want to volunteer at a hospital, okay, do that. Yes, you do need to fulfill certain requirements, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy yourself along the way.

 

[TheLivingMed]

Thanks for the input you guys. With how many people post here I was curious if I would get a response but I really appreciate it. My mind is in a ton of places and I'm just trying to get collected and make a plan for the best way to get the most out of my education/experiences. Thanks again.

 

[HumbleMD]

Clinical experience is a must. As is research for most upper-level schools. You'll also want some volunteer work at some point. What interviewers have explicityly told me is that they like seeing leadership and they like seeing commitment (which is something you can do now starting your first year). In order to stick with something, it's thus important to find something that's menaingful to you.

Now for my subjective advice (take it or leave it) for someone starting their pre-med career: Avoid AMSA and other "pre-med" clubs like the plague. The pre-med culture at most schools is toxic and these clubs are usually pretty pointless. You want to stand out from other applicants, and living like every other pre-med isn't the best way to do it. Also, be very wary "honor societies." Many are ineffective to nonexistent and are an elaborate means of getting your money (Phi Betta Kappa is one big exception, and according to many, they only one that matters). Also, you don't HAVE to volunteer at a hospital. I volunteer at a free clinic instead and have done some international medical relife (I do translation), and it's fared me fine if not well.