Question about extracurriculars

[asigna]

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Hi I am going to be a sophomore this fall and I am wondering how much extracurriculars have an emphasis towards the application process.

Right now, I have a strong 3.9 gpa and I am volunteering at a hospital (pre surgery), and I also work. But this fall I do want to get involved (since I didnt really do much freshman year). Do extracurriculars have to be linked to the school, or can they be associated out of school?

 

[DaenarysDuhh]

Congrats on the gpa! Keep it up!

ECs are an essential part of your application, so it's a great idea to get involved. The hospital work is great. Any ECs that involve community service or volunteering are a good idea because it shows the compassion/concern for humanity that are physician qualities. If they are health-related that's a bonus. Also, given that you are only a sophomore, you have a lot of time to pick an EC and stick with it so you can have a leadership role - med schools like leadership, and it will genuinely be a great experience for you. Also, pick something fun! Pre-reqs are hard, might as well enjoy your other time.

To answer your last question - ECs definitely do not need to be through your school, although sometimes that can be the easiest way to do one because colleges have so many opportunities.

 

[kevinc2]

maybe even research, volunteering, and club leadership. But don't get too overinvolved. Just do 3-4 activities at most (1 research, 1 clinical experineces, 1 volunteering, and 1 club) and put a lot of energy and efforts in them instead of doing 7-15 different things.

 

[Pacna]

Definitely add some research experience.

Consider becoming an EMT over the summer (the summer course is REALLY easy and only puts you out ~$1,000).

Remember, length of time spent in the activity is crucial. Adcoms want to know the experience was meaningful. Nothing says meaningful like 3 years of your life spent on it.