Many students do not attend medical school immediately following undergrad for a variety of reasons. Many traditional applicants spend the year improving their academic credentials and gaining additional research or clinical experience. Improving pre-med credentials is probably the most common reason for the “gap year.”
Some students, however, decide that they want to use this “gap year” more for self development and enrichment. They choose to take this time to go abroad, travel, teach, or even pursue other interests such as writing or dance. These options are all acceptable if your medical school application is solid. Often students seek out unique opportunities, like volunteering at a medical mission or partaking in a service year either here in the states or abroad. Pursuing anything you are passionate about for this year is something that many students feel they want. This “year off” from what has likely been a long journey focused on your medical school aspirations, is often a time of personal growth, allowing students the time they need for reflection and validation of career goals.
Whether you spend the year working in a lab, volunteering in a clinic, taking courses or doing something completely non-medical – you will be experiencing the “real” world and maturing. This experience and process will make you a stronger applicant. During this time you will develop those non-tangible strengths such as leadership , motivation, dedication, and compassion — attributes admissions committees are looking for in their applicants. The bottom line: spend the year doing what is right for you – get involved, be stimulated, broaden your options and open yourself to new opportunities. Involve yourself in experiences that will not only supplement your AMCAS application but also those that will allow you to grow both personally and professionally.
By guest blogger Theresa Davies-Heerema, Ph.D., who has advised many medical and dental school applicants during her career in post-graduate education.
Read the full article: How to Spend your “Gap Year” Between College and Medical School (Part 2).