What to do on an off-year

[UFGator15]

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I'm a graduate with a degree in Biology (pre-professional).

I'm kind of at a loss for what to do on my year off. I can't do much with a pre-professional degree.
My GPA is around a 3.8, so I'm not sure if a Master's program would be particularly beneficial.

In terms of extracurriculars, I could use something impressive to talk about. I've done some psychology research, worked with kids, volunteered, had some leadership positions etc. I just don't think it's enough though.

Lastly, I'm pretty much on my own, working minimum wage jobs to support myself. It's hard to get involved in stuff with this going on as well.

Any suggestions?

 

[abc1014]

I'm a graduate with a degree in Biology (pre-professional).

I'm kind of at a loss for what to do on my year off. I can't do much with a pre-professional degree.
My GPA is around a 3.8, so I'm not sure if a Master's program would be particularly beneficial.

In terms of extracurriculars, I could use something impressive to talk about. I've done some psychology research, worked with kids, volunteered, had some leadership positions etc. I just don't think it's enough though.

Lastly, I'm pretty much on my own, working minimum wage jobs to support myself. It's hard to get involved in stuff with this going on as well.

Any suggestions?

Maybe you could work in a lab? It's a great way to make money while also adding to your story/experience. I completely understand the dilemmas that arise when faced with the task of supporting yourself. You can look into labs at a university near you, or you also could check into research tech positions at any biotechnology-related companies near you, if there are any.

 

[abc1014]

Also, I just noticed that you're pre-pharm. Have you looked into being a pharmacy technician? I'm pre-med and I worked in a retail pharmacy for a couple years.

 

[md-2020]

I'm a graduate with a degree in Biology (pre-professional).
I'm kind of at a loss for what to do on my year off. I can't do much with a pre-professional degree.
My GPA is around a 3.8, so I'm not sure if a Master's program would be particularly beneficial.
In terms of extracurriculars, I could use something impressive to talk about. I've done some psychology research, worked with kids, volunteered, had some leadership positions etc. I just don't think it's enough though.
Lastly, I'm pretty much on my own, working minimum wage jobs to support myself. It's hard to get involved in stuff with this going on as well.
Any suggestions?

If you're willing to take an additional gap year, the Peace Corps fits what you're looking for. It's hella impressive, shows serious altruism, is personally enriching, and for most (many of my friends have done/are doing it) is eye-opening. They also support you (stipend, living expenses, dental and medical insurance, the full 9 yards) while you're working abroad. Apparently select student loans (if you have any) can be forgiven as well, but I'm not too familiar with the specifics.

Keep in mind this is work though, and not a vacation. Tough times occur too.

 

[abc1014]

URM with a 3.9/34? Apply wherever you want. Most clear cut WAMC thread of the day

Apply to MCG and Mercer. Throw in a few HBMCs as well. Rest can literally be as many reaches and big names as you want

If you're willing to take an additional gap year, the Peace Corps fits what you're looking for. It's hella impressive, shows serious altruism, is personally enriching, and for most (many of my friends have done/are doing it) is eye-opening. They also support you (stipend, living expenses, dental and medical insurance, the full 9 yards) while you're working abroad. Apparently select student loans (if you have any) can be forgiven as well, but I'm not too familiar with the specifics.

Also in line with this is AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps is a one year, domestic service position. The stipend, however, is a little tight. Loans are deferred while you're in the program, and you can choose to recieve the Education Award at the end of your term, which can cover loan repayments in the future. It's a great program (if you do your research on what organization you decide to work for), but the stipend is definitely something to consider before going that route.

All in all, there a lot of options! Don't get discouraged 🙂

 

[Svenson]

I'd highly recommend becoming a scribe (in the ER), although it may be difficult if you ae completely supporting yourself as you make minimum wage. However, you learn so much, not just about medicine, but about the politics of medicine; you are basically being paid to shadow a physician.