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This is a great thread, lots of information. I have looked at a couple programs, only to find that it's directed to URMs or those not interested in dental/law/MD.
I'm currently a community college student (transferring soon). No research experience. I've only taken a couple science courses and will be able to get a LOR from one professor for sure, but most programs require two. I'm also a 1st generation if it helps.
I don't really know where to apply. NIH SIP has a program designed for community college students, but then I'm not sure where I could get another LOR. These programs sound like great experiences. I plan on getting into research as soon as I transfer. If I can't get into a program, I plan on working (non-medically related) over the summer. Would a lack of summer experience have a negative affect on a graduate school application, or am I just being neurotic?
If you don't have a lot of research experience, try looking into an REU. Those programs tend to target people who don't have much research experience due to transferring or attending a college/university where you don't have as much access to research. One of my first research experiences was through an REU and the people in my program definitely didn't have a ton of research experience. You can find listings for these programs here: http://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.cfm
Obviously if you only apply to REUs at Harvard and Princeton, it will be very difficult to get into one and a lot of people in those programs will have research experience. If you're serious about doing a summer internship, apply broadly to some different and, to an extent, lesser known programs that interest you and should have a pretty good shot.
As to whether not doing one would negatively impact your application, no, it won't really except maybe to the top research schools. As long as you're doing something productive with your summer, I don't think it matters greatly unless you plan on doing an MD/PhD program. If you do plan on doing non-medical work over the summer, try and fit in some shadowing or clinical volunteering.