Studying Abroad for the Summer

[sunshine02]

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How noteworthy is studying abroad as far as med school admissions go? I've heard mixed reviews: that it looks good and is highly recommended because you get cultural experience vs. that it is a waste of time and money and lots of people do it so it's not noteworthy. I'm considering doing it no matter what, but I'm just curious how much it will help me in admissions to top medical schools.

 

[LittleDandelion]

It's really not that much of a deal when it comes to applying because so many people have been on a study abroad trip. Unless you do something medicine related during your trip, it's really not that important on your app. However, do go on one for your own sake. Many people say that studying abroad was the best time of their life or something like that. Do things because you want to, not to make them look impressive on your app.

 

[BABSstudent]

Don't do it to look good. Do it because you want to do it.

And there are many different types of programs. If you leave and go to another English speaking countries, then it doesn't look impressive. If you go abroad to a country that speak another language, it looks better. However, many people do this to party and practice a language so there may be some negative connotations.

If you study abroad in a foreign language country and participate in a program that allows you to do something medical related or do research in another language, even better. This is what I did. I lived in Ecuador for last summer and got clinical experience in rural clinical medicine. Definitely gave me a whole different perspective on medicine and a completely different healthcare system.

But only do it if you really want to do it.

 

[MedBound1]

How is studying abroad compared to doing research, volunteering, clinical experiences back at home? Meh, probably no different.

Was studying abroad during the summer the best time of my life during college? YES

 

[AtlasCarraway]

Studying abroad will probably make you more culturally educated as a person. Do you think medical schools will see that as a valuable trait?

I'm studying abroad right now in a South American country and I've gotten to shadow at various hospitals/clinics and tour the medical schools here. I've learned a lot about this country's healthcare, and consequently about that of the United States too. I fully recommend doing something similar if you get the chance.

 

[BABSstudent]

How is studying abroad compared to doing research, volunteering, clinical experiences back at home? Meh, probably no different.

Was studying abroad during the summer the best time of my life during college? YES

👍

Totally agree with this. Plus, if you go somewhere around Latin or the northern part of South America then you get nice beaches, warm weather, sun and get to try the national beers. Keep in mind that summer for us is winter below the equator. HOWEVER!!! Winter in Ecuador was lows of 75 in the night and highs of only 95 during the day. On a cold day it would be 80. There wasn't sun though, since the intertropical convergence zone (the band of clouds on the equator) blocked all major sun the entire time I was there. I left pasty white and came back still really white.

 

[PreMedOrDead]

Studying abroad will probably make you more culturally educated as a person. Do you think medical schools will see that as a valuable trait?

I'm studying abroad right now in a South American country and I've gotten to shadow at various hospitals/clinics and tour the medical schools here. I've learned a lot about this country's healthcare, and consequently about that of the United States too. I fully recommend doing something similar if you get the chance.

Note: I would assume this is especially true if you're a Caucasian male from a middle/upper class family in a suburban area. Experiencing what it's like to live in a much different place will do a world for your diversity statements. A second language is also a great idea.

AKA: Make sure you're doing it for (1) Enjoyment (2) Education (new language/research/medical experience) and (3) Maturity

 

[Praefectus]

Note: I would assume this is especially true if you're a Caucasian male from a middle/upper class family in a suburban area. Experiencing what it's like to live in a much different place will do a world for your diversity statements. A second language is also a great idea.

AKA: Make sure you're doing it for (1) Enjoyment (2) Education (new language/research/medical experience) and (3) Maturity

👍 At some point in your life, you definitely need a worldly experience. For med school apps, not so much.