Updating Schools about Meaningful Activities?

[TheMCATWorther112]

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Would it be a good idea to update schools about a meaningful clinical experience I have had for 2+ months that wasn't listed on primary (got the position right after submitting primary)? I have also been volunteering at blood drives and will be mentoring youths virtually.

I feel like it would be a good idea and could give schools a better idea of my ECs but for some reason I see people sometimes saying not to update schools about things.

I did briefly mention these new activities on most secondaries, but have more to write about now with more hours under my belt.

 

[ontiquicuo]

How significant is the change? Are we looking at a change 0 hrs -> 200 hrs of clinical experience? Or 500 hrs -> 600 hrs? I didn't know if the latter is worth an update.

 

[TheMCATWorther112]

@ontiquicuo It's going from 200 hours clinical (excluding shadowing) --> 350 hours clinical total, and the experience I have right now is direct patient care

 

[Rachapkis]

I don’t think that update will move the needle. I would save it for when you are on a waitlist, want to express interest, and want to do everything you can to affect things at the margins.

 

[candbgirl]

I agree with @Rachapkis . You’ve mentioned this stuff on “ most” secondaries so the schools know. Keep at your activities and mention them when you have several updates. Like new grades , a publication and these activities. Remember not all schools will even consider an update and most of those that do really want them to be meaningful. There are a few schools that would love to hear from applicants weekly.