Making the most out of medical school

[TJBottlepockets]

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So I know you have to do the core things such as grades/USMLE but what are other things that I can do that can help me make the most out of my education. Whether it is volunteering/research/hanging around the ER/groups/clubs/etc.

I want to go into surgery most likely. Any tips, tricks, or advice on things that would help get into top residency programs and be the best I can be for my career? Thanks!

 

[RySerr21]

Medical school is 100% about your effort. The more you put in, the more you'll get out of it. Study hard, and the good scores will come with that. Find things outside of class that you enjoy as well, whether its research, volunteer, etc. There's no set path, but if you just approach each year with the attitude that you are going to find new opportunities that you enjoy and dedicate yourself to those things, then by the time you apply you will have a pretty impressive application. Since you already know you wanna do surgery (which may change of course), you can get in contact with a mentor (either upperclassmen or faculty member) who can further guide you regarding what is necessary/best for a surgical applicant.

 

[Valadi]

get in contact with a mentor (either upperclassmen or faculty member) who can further guide you regarding what is necessary/best for a surgical applicant.

Second that sentiment. The best thing you can do for yourself is find a very involved M4 mentor to sit down with who can direct you to which attendings to get involved with, what projects to get on, etc.

 

[Jack is Back]

Learn from others at your school how to study efficiently there and on SDN too. More work =/= better results.

 

[ArcGurren]

So I know you have to do the core things such as grades/USMLE but what are other things that I can do that can help me make the most out of my education. Whether it is volunteering/research/hanging around the ER/groups/clubs/etc.

I want to go into surgery most likely. Any tips, tricks, or advice on things that would help get into top residency programs and be the best I can be for my career? Thanks!

Be very careful thinking you want to go into some field right from the outset. I thought I wanted to go into a surgical subspecialty when I entered medical school. I completely changed my mind.

That being said any research is good research; get involved with whatever field interests you. It's not going to hurt you.

 

[abmd]

agree with arc to some extent. but I came into med school wanting to do surgical subspec and am still 100% surgical ... but I didn't do any research. An M3 now and wish I'd done some. hop on that now when you have time