What should I do this summer?

[ZRCMed]

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So, this summer I've decided to stay at school and take summer classes (about 15 credits of math and science w/ labs). I'm pretty busy already, but I want to keep myself competitive for med school. I have an opportunity for a summer writing position for the school newspaper. How good would this look on an application? My other option would be to continue Jiu-Jitsu practice (I'm on a competition team) and take an MCAT class. What would be the best approach to my situation? Constructive comments are extremely appreciated. Thank you.

 

[UVAbme2009]

Do people really only do things so it looks good on their app?

 

[premedsoccergod]

seriously. this is pathetic. premed kids drive me nutz

 

[MedicineMike]

seriously. this is pathetic. premed kids drive me nutz

i couldnt agree more...freakin pre-meds

 

[redlight]

dont waste your time on app filler. do things you really enjoy (/increase your credentials for med school) and MAKE them worthwhile/resume-worthy by investing in the activity long-term. if you are taking a heavy load [is 15 heavy for a summer session? most people take 2 courses, for maybe 6-8 credits, but i'm thinking you are on the quarter system so im not sure how much time commitment 15 credits would merit], why not just volunteer or just do the jiu-jistsu on the side? don't burn yourself out.

 

[ZRCMed]

seriously. this is pathetic. premed kids drive me nutz

Please. Don't act like you aren't on SDN at least in-part to learn how to be a successful applicant. Medicine is my dream. Unfortunately, to be able to reach my dream I have to appeal to adcoms. I'm not simply doing things to "look good" on an application. Obviously these are two things that I would enjoy doing. And I've been doing Jiu Jitsu all my life. Furthermore, I've been through a lot just to even afford my undergraduate education. Think twice before insulting someone's character. That, quite frankly, is what's "pathetic".

 

[penisclaw]

Please. Don't act like you aren't on SDN at least in-part to learn how to be a successful applicant. Medicine is my dream. Unfortunately, to be able to reach my dream I have to appeal to adcoms. I'm not simply doing things to "look good" on an application. Obviously these are two things that I would enjoy doing. And I've been doing Jiu Jitsu all my life. Furthermore, I've been through a lot just to even afford my undergraduate education. Think twice before insulting someone's character. That, quite frankly, is what's "pathetic".

I don't think his comment is directed directly at you, but at premeds as a whole. And the posters above have a point: If you are doing it just as application fodder, don't waste your time. You won't get enough out of it for it to impact your character, something that is obvious to adcoms when interviewing you. Do what you are passionate about/interested in, otherwise don't bother.

 

[UVAbme2009]

Please. Don't act like you aren't on SDN at least in-part to learn how to be a successful applicant. Medicine is my dream. Unfortunately, to be able to reach my dream I have to appeal to adcoms. I'm not simply doing things to "look good" on an application. Obviously these are two things that I would enjoy doing. And I've been doing Jiu Jitsu all my life. Furthermore, I've been through a lot just to even afford my undergraduate education. Think twice before insulting someone's character. That, quite frankly, is what's "pathetic".

Then next time don't ask how good something will look on your app. Do what you want, not what will look better. You don't need anybody to tell you what you want to do.