Clinical Experiences
Health professional schools expect students to have a solid grasp of the roles and responsibilities of medical professionals and an understanding of the healthcare environment. You are required to gain clinical experience by volunteering or working in a health care setting, such as a hospital, community clinic, or office, where you have the opportunity to actively engage with patients and health care professionals. Engaging in clinical work is critical for demonstrating your commitment and passion to pursue a health profession. It will also allow you to develop your medical interests. Start Early!
Research and/or Scholarly Work
You are encouraged to participate in basic science research, research within your major of study, or clinical research as it relates to your academic interests and professional goals. Conducting research will help to develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. We encourage you to explore research in a field of interest to you. It does not have to be in the natural sciences. While research is not required for clinical graduate programs ((MD, DO, DDS), it is a key component for research-based programs (MD/Ph.D.).
Community Service & Engagement
We strongly encourage you to get involved in your community, whether it's on-campus or off-campus. Being connected to your community and demonstrating altruism, compassion, awareness and cultural sensitivity to the needs of your community are important qualities that admissions committees are seeking in applicants.
Additional Activities & Experiences
Health professional schools seek well-rounded applicants with a variety of interests and skillsets. We encourage you to explore all of your interests regardless of their specifically related to your career pursuits. Involvement in activities within your community will afford you opportunities to develop and strengthen your leadership skills, cultivate personal interests, and establish meaningful relationships.
Summer Opportunities
The summer is an ideal time to explore your interest in the health professions by gaining rich and meaningful clinical and research experience. Not only do we hope you have the opportunity to engage with wonderful people and patients, gain knowledge, and build new skills, but these opportunities allow you to continue developing and strengthening the Core Competencies that health professional graduate programs look for in their future students.