How to do well in medical School (balancing studies and activities)?

[QuizzicalNM]

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I am about to start Medical School and wished to hit the ground running, so here are few questions I have for current Med Students.

1. Extracurricular Activities- I was told by a counselor that the first year (at least) I should stay away from any activity and focus on my studies.
My Belief- While I understand the basis for this advice, I remember my college life, I didn't start any activity till my fourth year and by then I was scraping to get any activity I could. So what do you think? Should I join any club or groups? Not as an officer or anything, just as a member.

2. Residency, What can I do in the first two years to distinguish myself on my residency resume? I found a clinic up in Chicago, that takes residents. I talked over with them and they said that once I join, I should feel free to spend some time volunteering with them.

3. Exercise and Healthy Eating- What would you recommend on this front? I remember back in college, I was a stress eater and lost how to squeeze in a 1 hour trip to the gym. Do any current medical students have any ideas?

Thank You!

 

[costales]

I am about to start Medical School and wished to hit the ground running, so here are few questions I have for current Med Students.
1. Extracurricular Activities- I was told by a counselor that the first year (at least) I should stay away from any activity and focus on my studies.
My Belief- While I understand the basis for this advice, I remember my college life, I didn't start any activity till my fourth year and by then I was scraping to get any activity I could. So what do you think? Should I join any club or groups? Not as an officer or anything, just as a member.

Nobody looks at ECs at your residency interview. Your personal hobby is more important, and you may be asked if you have one. Gun collecting doesn't count.

2. Residency, What can I do in the first two years to distinguish myself on my residency resume? I found a clinic up in Chicago, that takes residents. I talked over with them and they said that once I join, I should feel free to spend some time volunteering with them.

See above. Nobody cares about your volunteering. You're in med school now. Study.

3. Exercise and Healthy Eating- What would you recommend on this front? I remember back in college, I was a stress eater and lost how to squeeze in a 1 hour trip to the gym. Do any current medical students have any ideas?
Thank You!

Try to get at least as much exercise as the people in federal prison. If you don't know anyone in federal prison, get at least as much exercise as TV and phone time.