Is putting religiously affiliated extracurrics on your application unprofessional or negative in any light?
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religious extracurrics?
Started by seemstress
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I would put it especially if it is very important to you and especially if you had any leadership roles. I imagine most medical schools have one or more religous student organizations.
I was head deaconess, on the finance commitee and church board, and the home and school leader -These were all in my church. This is were the majority of my leadership came from. I listed them on my appl and during my interviews they were mentioned but all in a positive leadership light. I was accepted to 3 schools and waitlisted at one. So I say add it!
Does being grand master of the church of Tom Cruise...I mean scientology count?
I think if you're going to apply to a schools that openly states its religious affiliations like Touro University, or Pikeville, then you need to think about what you put in there. If it's just a school with no particular affiliation, then I'm sure it's fine.
Personally though, I had one activity that I was heavily involved in from high school all through college and beyond, a very big part of my life, but I knew certain religious institutions would possibly judge it poorly, because it was slightly controversial, and so I actually left it out of my application. I do not regret doing so either. If your religious activities are controversial, like protesting abortion clinics, or whatever, then leave it out, however, if it's community service oriented, then you should totally put it in.
Personally though, I had one activity that I was heavily involved in from high school all through college and beyond, a very big part of my life, but I knew certain religious institutions would possibly judge it poorly, because it was slightly controversial, and so I actually left it out of my application. I do not regret doing so either. If your religious activities are controversial, like protesting abortion clinics, or whatever, then leave it out, however, if it's community service oriented, then you should totally put it in.
I agree with lrobin15. I'm an adult Sunday School teacher and a member of the church handbell choir and softball team. Leadership and sports...both areas of my application that needed the help! If you have other extracurriculars that aren't related to your church, I would put them also to show that you're well rounded.
I don't believe that it should be a problem as long as it shows you in a positive light. I worked for two religiously affliated organizations, one as swimming instructor teaching the mentally disabled how to swim, and one as youth group leader, where I told stories and parables based on the bible. Both showed me in a leadership role and I believe only enhanced my application. I hope you are accepted into the school of your choice. Good Luck!!!
