list of hoops

[millersvillemed]

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Hi everyone, I'm going into my sophomore year as a premed student. So far I believe I am on the right track, I have just below a 4.0, have started volunteering at the local hospital, and spend most of my spare time reading and studying (very slightly, since they're so far away) for the MCAT's. I am just wondering what other "hoops" I should jump through while trying to bulk up my personal portfolio.

For example, I know grades are important, along with volunteer work, research, and other things, but I want to know what all I should be doing at this point and from now on to better my chances. I have my sights aimed high, and am hoping to enter one of the top medical schools in the US (dream choice John Hopkins).

How much volunteer work should I do?

When should I start undergrad research?

What else can I be doing to better my application?

Are clubs, such as chem club or bio club, helpful at all?

Anyone here go to John Hopkins?

 

[MilkmanAl]

How much volunteer work should I do?

It seems like 100+ hours in a clinical position is sufficient. The more, the better, of course.

When should I start undergrad research?

If you're going to do research, start ASAP. You'll want plenty of time to get acquainted with your PI. Plenty of people get in without any research experience (like me!), so don't feel like you're obligated to do it. If you enjoy it, though, go for it.

What else can I be doing to better my application?

Involve yourself in activities you enjoy. Sports, clubs, political groups, and university services (tour guides, tutoring, etc.) are popular.

Are clubs, such as chem club or bio club, helpful at all?

Only if you actually attend the clubs regularly. if you go once to say you went, that's not going to do anything. Becoming a club officer would be very useful.

Anyone here go to John Hopkins?

Hell no.

 

[scarletgirl777]

Hi everyone, I'm going into my sophomore year as a premed student. So far I believe I am on the right track, I have just below a 4.0, have started volunteering at the local hospital, and spend most of my spare time reading and studying (very slightly, since they're so far away) for the MCAT's. I am just wondering what other "hoops" I should jump through while trying to bulk up my personal portfolio.

For example, I know grades are important, along with volunteer work, research, and other things, but I want to know what all I should be doing at this point and from now on to better my chances. I have my sights aimed high, and am hoping to enter one of the top medical schools in the US (dream choice John Hopkins).

How much volunteer work should I do?

When should I start undergrad research?

What else can I be doing to better my application?

Are clubs, such as chem club or bio club, helpful at all?

Anyone here go to John Hopkins?

The most important thing about your activities is that you find the ones you really like and do them CONSISTENTLY. And whatever you do, excel at it. So aspire to leadership positions in your club. Aspire to be an excellent research assistant. Volunteer somewhere you like and enjoy. I would start the volunteering now, and the research should be done ASAP...if you really want to it to be good, starting later than junior year is probably not the best idea.