Time for some research

[nickmx50]

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Thanks ahead of time. I'm a full time student with wife,teenager,and first grader. Currently, I'm also volunteering once a week, working weekends, and I do a once a month community service. The hospital I volunteer at has a scribe program that will give me numerous hours of shadowing if I'm accepted. 4.0 GPA so far, taking MCAT next summer. I'm really trying to target schools in Minn(UofM,Mayo) and the Texas schools(Baylor,UofH,TT,UofT) because of cost of living for the family. I'm a little concerned about not having research. My school has an honors research program for seniors which I should get accepted too if I have any chance at all at medical school. So my question is, will senior research even be considered since it will be after I apply? I'm sure I could mention it if I get an interview, but I know these schools are competitive and many applicants have several hours of research prior to applying. Any insight or suggestions?

 

[Medic3408]

Being a Post Doc, I see this ALL the time.

You need to find a cool, laid back, professor that has quite a few grad students or Post Docs. My lab takes alot of undergrads, and some of them get funneled to me to train. That's how it works. The professor HAS to be of the mindset where they WANT to help the next generation of Drs, and also HAS to have the resources to train them.

Then, I work with them and teach them. It is a TON of work. So you have to try and find a Post Doc that understands research forces critical thinking, without which no one can survive as a Dr.

Your best bet: search your University web site for research, and find a few profs whose research interest you. EMAIL THEM ONE AT A TIME AND NOT A MASS EMAIL. Mass emails are one sure way to turn off anyone.

Meet with them, and be confident, and know exactly why you want to do research. KNOW ABOUT their research, and how it would help you become a better SCIENTIST. Drs are scientists too, and research is an important tool.

 

[7starmantis]

Ok, so with your grades (cumulative 4.0?), EC's, and possibly a good or decent MCAT, you dont need research. It wouldn't hurt, but its not going to get you accepted or rejected. If you can't fit it in, focus on other clinical EC's and volunteer experience. Research is not crucial to be accepted.

 

[Medic3408]

@7starmantis

I totally love your avatar. I so wish I could have some Red Balls right now. Actually, I could spike my Red Bull with some blow from the laboratory down the hall from me.