Extracurricular Activities Every Medical School Admissions Committee Wants to See

by Agam Verma

Each year, the number of qualified students that apply to medical school surpasses the number of available seats. Additionally, many who apply to medical school are some of the country’s best and brightest students. In this super-competitive medical school admissions arena, you’ll need to stand out from other applicants. Your extracurricular activities could give you the competitive edge that means the difference in getting in or not. Extracurricular activities give medical schools a chance to see what you’ve done during your pre-med years. Medical schools are now more focused on recruiting students who beyond having a strong academic background, are well-rounded and will be a good fit for their school.
 
Here are some extracurricular activities that every medical school admissions committee wants to see on your application:
 
1. Volunteering (Medical): 
One of the most valued extracurricular activities, medical related volunteering is a very common extracurricular activity that almost all medical schools look for. Below are some example volunteer positions (medical):
 

• Volunteer at a hospital or clinic
• Volunteer as an emergency medical technician
• Volunteer as a camp counsellor that works with children who are disabled

 
2. Volunteering (Non-Medical): 
With non-medical volunteering comes experience that truly demonstrates your commitment and dedication to being a well-rounded applicant. Different from being involved in medical related volunteering, donating your time to an organization that has nothing to do with you, says a lot about your desire to be in public service. Below are some example volunteer positions (non-medical):
 

• Volunteer at a Food Bank
• Volunteering with an organization such as Habitat for Humanity
• Volunteer as a coach for a sports team in your community  
  

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3. Leadership Experience:
If even one of your fifteen slots for work/activities is filled with leadership experience, you’ll be sure to gain a few extra points in comparison to an applicant who can’t say the same. Many medical schools look for applicants who are strong leaders, individuals who can tackle the most vexing challenges. Below are some example ‘leadership experience’ positions:
 

• Holding office in a student government, club, or organization
• Mentoring at-risk youth or fellow university students
• Organizing any type of event on campus or in your community

 
There’s no way to tell beforehand whether or not the extracurricular activities you chose will be meaningful or not, so it’s essential that you give yourself enough time during your pre-med years to plan and manage your time accordingly. In order to be successful, start by seeking out activities you truly enjoy. Then try to incorporate the medical component. The above extracurricular activities were just some examples of extracurricular activities every medical school admissions committee wants to see. For more information, you can visit your local hospital, university website, or city website to seek out different extracurricular activities.