Feedback on ECs

[solitarius]

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At application time, I'm going to have just three ECs, all volunteer:

Research: 500 hours in clinical research at a university hospital's Emergency Department. Real responsibilities. Observe medicine practiced at a major academic center as well.

Clinical, Volunteer: 250 - 300 hours in Hospice. Talk to patients one-on-one. Inquire about pain and some health-related issues, but mostly just adapt to whatever they need or want to talk about at that moment in time.

Volunteer, Clinical or Non-Clinical: 250 hours. Spanish translation between provider/staff and non-English speaking patients.

I'm just not interested in padding my resume, or doing additional things really. If I had more time, I would simply put it into one of the three I've chosen. Not particularly interested in doing non-medical volunteering, nor do I want to go to Harvard Medical School or Johns Hopkins or the like.

Shooting for a mid-tier and a few top 25's, all MD. I realize grades/MCAT will play a big role, but just would like your feedback at least from the strictly EC standpoint.

Thanks.

 

[mtbtx]

At application time, I'm going to have just three ECs, all volunteer:

Research: 500 hours in clinical research at a university hospital's Emergency Department. Real responsibilities. Observe medicine practiced at a major academic center as well.

Clinical, Volunteer: 250 - 300 hours in Hospice. Talk to patients one-on-one. Inquire about pain and some health-related issues, but mostly just adapt to whatever they need or want to talk about at that moment in time.

Volunteer, Clinical or Non-Clinical: 250 hours. Spanish translation between provider/staff and non-English speaking patients.

I'm just not interested in padding my resume, or doing additional things really. If I had more time, I would simply put it into one of the three I've chosen. Not particularly interested in doing non-medical volunteering, nor do I want to go to Harvard Medical School or Johns Hopkins or the like.

Shooting for a mid-tier and a few top 25's, all MD. I realize grades/MCAT will play a big role, but just would like your feedback at least from the strictly EC standpoint.

Thanks.

Wow, lots of hours. What is more important, however, is the length of time you spent doing each activity, and whether or not there are any "gaps" in your application time frame wise. Also, I would try expanding on your resume type wording and sharing more details (you don't have to share on here, just for your application).

It looks like you are missing personal interest type activities. Do you have any hobbies? What sets you apart from other students that have the exact same stats/EC's? Answering these types of questions will set you apart... or not. Personally, I would suggest joining a student organization or club involved with something you are interested in.

Keep in mind that only having three things on your application will look rather weak. I'm sure if you do some brain storming you can some up with more things. It doesn't matter how short or unimportant they seem, add them.