Originally posted by NUT:
WOW! Your credentials are outstanding! Going extra years doesn't hurt you in the long run does it? I'm on pace to finish my undergrad in 5 years (total). What kind of research did you participate in? How about the Amatuer Athletics? Do you feel that not doing research would hurt my application to those schools, being that you've already been accepted by them and know what they expect? I haven't done any research, but I work in a hospital and am volunteering with my school. Also, I just got the call today about volunteering from Big Bros and Big sisters. I'd like to do something athletic (i.e. basketball) with a younger person who could benefit from my presence. I know alot goes into admissions decision, but on what I've said so far, am I lacking anywhere (besides research) in particular? Please enlighten me with any other info or suggestions you might have. Thanks
To NUT,
I don't think taking extra time to graduate would hurt your chances of getting into medical school. I guess the more important issue is how did you use the extra time. For me, I have been involved in my sport since I was four. I got to travel the world and pursue other goals that I had. I didn't do this because I thought it would appease the admission's committee. It was just another goal I had. In the process, I learned how important medicine was to me and that I would even retire from competing to give my full attention to medical school. And I did all the "necessary" pre-med stuff. So I feel that my time was well spent because I got to pursue my life dreams, learn more about myself, and gain more focus on what I thought was more important to me.
As far as research, I think it really depends on what school you want to go to. If you want to go to U of C--then definately do research because U of C is known to be a "research school." I didn't apply to U of C because research is not my biggest concern. An interviewer at UIC told me his view on research. He thinks it is a good experience and people should try and take the opportunity but it really isn't a requirement for med school.
As for everything else, my advice is to try and do things you are interested in. Of course, there are some standards you should try and meet--the coursework, good GPA (>3.5), strong MCAT (around 30), good volunteer experiences (so that you know, and the committee knows, that you are seriously interested in medicine), strong AMCAS personal statement, getting your apps in EARLY (very important--don't overlook it), and good recs. The rest, personal characteristics, leadership abilities, etc. will show when you do things you are interested in.
Don't plan your entire life around what you think the admission's committee would like. Keep in mind what the "requirements" are, but live your life how you want to. Again, there is no real formula. I really think if you really want to get into medical school and if your half way intelligent, then you'll eventually get in. if you don't the first time, then evaulate your application's weaknessess and reapply when you think you've fixed them.
Hope this helps.
