Balancing Extracurriculars in College for Pre-Meds

Key Takeaways

• No 'one-size-fits-all' solution: Choose extracurriculars based on personal interests, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Focus on quality over quantity: Commit deeply to a few activities rather than spreading yourself too thin.
• Leadership roles are crucial: Aim to hold leadership positions rather than being just a member.
• Extracurriculars can be divided into three main categories: Clinical, Research, and Personal.

Categories of Extracurriculars

1. Clinical

• Importance: Shows understanding of what it means to be a physician.
• Examples: Volunteering at hospitals, international medical trips, shadowing physicians.
• Personal Note: The speaker volunteered in the emergency dept and on international trips but had limited shadowing.

2. Research

• Importance: Foundational to improving patient care.
• Types:
  • Basic Science Research: Lab-based, involves techniques like pipetting, PCR, etc.
  • Clinical Research: Involves patients, faster turnaround, and interaction with patient data.
• Personal Note: The speaker initially did basic science research and later preferred clinical research in med school.

3. Personal

• Importance: Hobbies and personal interests to relieve stress and foster friendships.
• Examples: Starting clubs (e.g., running, longboarding), participating in competitions, personal hobbies (e.g., lifting, digital art).
• Personal Note: Engaged in activities like dance, digital art, lifting weights, later cycling and car racing.

Final Thoughts

• Balance Required: Ensure time for personal extracurriculars alongside clinical and research activities.
• Seek Joy: Engage in activities that make you happy and keep you sane.
• Interaction: Encourage sharing of personal and extracurricular activities.

Conclusion

• Emphasis on quality involvement in a few extracurriculars.
• Leadership roles and personal satisfaction are key.
• Balance between clinical, research, and personal categories.