In addition to my studies, are there other skills or experiences that I need?

Medical schools seek well-rounded applicants who are passionate about a career in medicine. Volunteer and medically related experiences, enrichment program participation, and/or research involvement are important, but not as important as what you learn from these experiences. Here are some other skills and qualities that medical schools look for:

• Leadership. Medical schools are interested in applicants who demonstrate leadership through volunteer work, school activities, and employment. 
  
  
• Understanding of a medical career. Your experiences should indicate that you understand what a career in medicine involves, and could include volunteering at a hospital, clinic, or nursing home or working as a research assistant. While you should have a variety of experiences, they shouldn’t appear to have been selected in a random or arbitrary manner. 
  
  
• Ability to balance school and other activities. Most important, don’t overextend yourself and thereby compromise your academic performance. Candidates for medical school are selected on the basis of the candidate’s complete profile (undergraduate and/or graduate record, MCAT® scores, personal characteristics, letters of recommendation, and experiences).

For More Information:

• Summer Medical and Dental Education Program  - Free Resource!
  This Web site includes information on this free, six-week, residential summer program that provides highly motivated first- and second-year college students from diverse backgrounds with intensive and personalized preparation.
  
  

• Online Enrichment Programs  - Free Resource!
  This AAMC Web site includes a database resource to help undergraduate students locate summer enrichment programs on medical school campuses.