What to do during the 1yr prior to matriculation?

[ocwaveoc]

Hey everyone.
I'm finishing up my prereqs this coming May and will be applying for med schools this coming summer to start school in Fall 08. I'll be studying for the Aug MCAT. So, my summer is tied up. But, after Aug until next fall when med school starts, I was thinking of working to save up some money as I've pretty much depleted my savings going to school to finish prereqs (I'm a non traditional student with a degree and can work to make a decent amt of money during the year off).
On the other hand, I'm afraid that the ADCOM will not look favorably towards not being in school for a year. What is your suggestion. Does anyone know who's had this issue and how he/she handled it or what the ADCOM had to say?
I've posted this in the Non traditional student section. But, I thought I'd get your opinions.
Thanks.
James

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[chad5871]

Hey everyone.
I'm finishing up my prereqs this coming May and will be applying for med schools this coming summer to start school in Fall 08. I'll be studying for the Aug MCAT. So, my summer is tied up. But, after Aug until next fall when med school starts, I was thinking of working to save up some money as I've pretty much depleted my savings going to school to finish prereqs (I'm a non traditional student with a degree and can work to make a decent amt of money during the year off).
On the other hand, I'm afraid that the ADCOM will not look favorably towards not being in school for a year. What is your suggestion. Does anyone know who's had this issue and how he/she handled it or what the ADCOM had to say?
I've posted this in the Non traditional student section. But, I thought I'd get your opinions.
Thanks.
James

Just so you know, it's against forum rules and regulations to cross-post at SDN.

In regards to your question, I would think that it wouldn't be a problem at all working full-time to save up some money and possibly doing some volunteering, etc. on the side. I'm taking a year off when I graduate and I plan on getting a full-time job in the medical field in addition to continuing some research, volunteering at a free clinic, and shadowing doctors.

 

[michaels]

I did the same thing, and was accepted.

 

[melissainsd]

I graduated May 06, and applied for the 07 cycle. Almost every interviewer (and secondary) asked what I have been doing my year off. I think it will be fine to work, but try and do something related to the medical field. If that just means volunteering, then that will probably be fine. I worked as a TA for a former professor, did some research and volunteered in a clinic. Good luck.

 

[ADeadLois]

You don't have to do anything medical or school-related during an off-year. Do something productive and do something that you want to do.

 

[ocwaveoc]

Sounds good. I'll work and make some needed money. Also, see if I can do some research.