How essential is leadership?

[RdBruce]

Hi, guys

I have a 3.9+ sci and cumulative gpa and a 34 MCAT. I have 100+ hours of shadowing and 200+ hours of hospital volunteering. I've 3 summers of research ending in a publication.

I'm applying next cycle and I'm OK with going to any US allopathic school. Is having no leadership experience going to be the kiss of death for me? I'm a senior so it's too late for me to become a club officer. Would it be OK for me to not have leadership experience and if not, could you please make some suggestions for me?

Thank you!

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[gmcguitar4]

It is not essential. It definitely looks good though. Just keep doing what your doing and you will be fine. What was your volunteer experience? What kind of research? MCAT breakdown?

You will 100% get interviews if you apply broadly. Just work on those interview skills in the meantime and show schools you are keeping yourself busy with the time in between.

 

[Catalystik]

Leadership isn't required, but it would make you more appealing to the more-competitive schools, and it would encourage overlooking other weaknesses.

Do you have teaching or nonmedical community service? What about hobbies, sports, or artistic endeavors? Your basics are very solid, but it would be nice to see something to help you stand out.

What do you think of starting a special interest group with the goal to accomplish something important by June? Or volunteering to lead a committee? Or training newbies in your lab?

 

[RdBruce]

Thanks for the replies.

I've trained newbies in my lab and when I volunteered; I didn't think those were very important experiences but I'll include them. I've been member of a few clubs during undergrad but I won't be holding a leadership position in any of them.

I'm a commuting student so I haven't been too involved in on-campus organizations. I'm worried about coming off as an introvert because my hobbies are modeling miniatures, jogging, and bodybuilding. I've played sports and organized games but with clubs that weren't associated with my school.

Should I include the non-school associated sports? They were primarily with friends so I don't know who I could put down as a contact.

 

[Catalystik]

Include everything. It makes you look WAY more interesting. Group the activities where needed so they fit in the spaces available. Use friends, a parent, or a group organizer where needed for a contact, if there is no official captain or officer.