Medical vs. non-medical volunteering

[aesposito]

I was a paramedic for many years and currently work in a hospital EMS system, so I've certainly got the clinical and patient-contact part covered for my app.

I have also begun volunteering at my county's mental health dept. Is that far enough away from medical-related volunteering/shadowing to show well-roundedness? Or should I look for somewhere else to go as well?

I chose to volunteer at the mental health dept because I wanted to, not for any med school reasons. But if my time is better spent elsewhere, I'd like to know now before I finish my pre-med reqs.

Thanks for your thoughts,
A

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[familyaerospace]

How is mental health not medically related?

I think you should do it if you enjoy doing it, but I'd consider that medically related.

 

[aesposito]

How is mental health not medically related?

I think you should do it if you enjoy doing it, but I'd consider that medically related.

From my readings on this forum, I gather that adcoms appreciate a more well-rounded volunteer experience, including both medical and non-medical situations. So are you saying I should also pursue something outside of mental health (or indeed of any health)?

I'm not thick, I'm just trying to clarify.

A

 

[eablackwell]

Here are some examples of my non-medical volunteer work:

Scholarship essay scorer for Mensa, motivational speaking, track and field coach & official

I think for non medical they are looking for things out of the healthcare system. If you are working with patients in a psychiatric care facility, then that is medical.

 

[aesposito]

In the past I have helped at my church's homeless shelter. I may start doing that again in addition to the other. Thank you for your help.

A

 

[familyaerospace]

Non-medical is outside of health care.

My non-medical is varied. I've tutored, did LGBT outreach, volunteered at a school (everything from car duty to copying things and cutting them out), but most of my work has been as a copyeditor for a space education non-profit.