How important is research???

[pennytop]

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Hey guys,
I have done a lot of different things related to clinical experiences (hospitals abroad, free clinics here, clinical program in Ecuador) but I have less research experience (only 1 semester). Is this a problem? How important is research? Plus, I'm graduating this year so I don't have time to start a project. Can I boost my research experience after graduating??
Thanks!

 

[Doctora Foxy]

Welcome to SDN! 😀

I think what you have now is excellent and you don't need more. Plenty of people have gotten accepted to med school w/o ANY research, and your clinical ECs will look very good to adcoms. Now just worry about the mcats if youre taking them soon.

good luck 😀

 

[blingbling]

Research is probably important to certain research-oriented medical schools, though many schools, including state schools are more clinically-oriented. Plus, research is one way for an applicant to show their commitment to medicine (clinical experiences are another way). Research is a plus, but the most important thing is to have a strong academic record, be unique or interesting some ways, and to show that you really do want to practice medicine for the rest of your life.

 

[pennytop]

Should I bother applying to some research-oriented schools or will a lot of research experience be a criteria for those ones?
Thanks!! 😛

 

[UCLA2000]

•••quote:•••Originally posted by pennytop:
•Hey guys,
I have done a lot of different things related to clinical experiences (hospitals abroad, free clinics here, clinical program in Ecuador) but I have less research experience (only 1 semester). Is this a problem? How important is research? Plus, I'm graduating this year so I don't have time to start a project. Can I boost my research experience after graduating??
Thanks!•••••Welcome to SDN!!!!!!! Congrats on finding the best premed message board.

Research isn't all that important. Just make sure that you have done SOME and are able to discuss it and you'll be fine. I highlighted my clinical experience, and community service and seriously downplayed my research. I was asked about it in a few interviews and I briefly glossed over it and focused on my other stuff.

 

[pipper]

I've had experience with bench research and clinical. During interviews, most schools seemed much more interested in the clinical experience I had than the bench stuff. At GW, the doctor actually seemed a little turned off by people that like to do research. It also depends on what kind of a doc you are thinking of becoming. Your stats look great, in particular your variety of clincal stuff. Hope this helps!! Best of luck!