Volunteer/extracirriculars over summer?

[Kaxa2000]

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I have already volunteered at a hospital in the pharmacy. Should I volunteer again at a different hospital in the pharmacy or should I try a different department to add variety? What other volunteer work/extracirriculars should I do to help my pharmacy school application?

Are things like helping the community useful? As an example, my city was holding an event where volunteers could help clean the city. I didn't participate though because I was busy with school. I heard that some pharmacy schools will throw out of consideration any non-pharmacy related volunteer work or organizations you were involved with. I don't know if that's true or not.

What about leadership? I have none of that, and I heard that's good to have. I'm in a few health care clubs at my university but only as a member. Any input/advice appreciated! 🙂

 

[TboneBoy2409]

Well from my own experience, as long as you have some exposure in pharmacy (like you did in the hospital), that should be enough to let the adcom people know that you're serious. It doesn't have to be in various fields unless you're really interested in learning, not just to add something to your resume.

Also, adcoms really like community service type (especially those schools in CA, but I'm sure all schools will say the same thing). So getting involved in some will show that you're a well-rounded applicant who doesn't just volunteer to look good on paper but also someone who wants to help the underserved or give back to the community. This kinda counts as leadership experience too, especially if you stick around at the same project for a while. Plus, you get to network with people so that's always fun.

Being a health-related club member is good but if you can, try to apply to be an officer or something. You said you don't have any leadership experience, so if you can get a position that's definitely gonna help strengthen your application.

Hope this helps..

 

[Kaxa2000]

Thanks for the input, it was helpful. I might get involved with the community and get a position in one of the clubs I'm in.

Does anyone else have any other input? Maybe share what you are doing/did to fulfill any volunteer additions to your app?