As a high school student aspiring to pursue a pre-med track in college, it’s essential to think beyond just your grades and test scores. While a solid academic record is crucial, extracurricular activities play a significant role in building a well-rounded application and preparing you for the challenges of medical school. Whether you're aiming to strengthen your college applications or gain valuable experience, certain extracurriculars will not only look impressive to admissions committees but also help you develop the skills and qualities that will serve you throughout your medical journey. Here are some excellent extracurricular activities to consider if you’re planning to pursue pre-medical studies at a college or university:
1. Volunteering in a Healthcare Setting
One of the most impactful extracurricular activities for any aspiring pre-med student is volunteering in a healthcare setting. Doing so provides first-hand experience in a clinical environment, allowing you to observe doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals at work. Hospitals, nursing homes, free clinics, urgent care centers, are all great places to start. Breaking into this arena can be difficult, so do not feel afraid to start by asking family members who are medical professionals whether they or someone in their practice would be open to letting you work at their place of employment. Not only will you gain exposure to patient care, but you’ll also demonstrate your commitment to helping others—an essential trait for anyone entering the medical field.
Moreover, shadowing allows you to observe doctors during their daily routines, gaining insight into the life of a physician. Whether it’s an MD, DO, or another type of healthcare professional, shadowing offers a unique opportunity to ask questions, understand the realities of patient care, and determine which areas of medicine resonate with you most. Reach out to local doctors, or ask family and friends for connections to shadow professionals in different medical specialties.
2. Join Science Clubs
Getting involved in science clubs, especially those focused on biology, chemistry, or health science, can provide a great foundation for a pre-med track. These clubs often host guest speakers, plan science-related activities, or compete in academic challenges such as science fairs or Olympiads. Participation shows your dedication to your studies and helps foster skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—all key qualities for medical professionals. Included in this are science magazines, which can often be clubs at school. Being an author or editor for a science magazine illustrates not only a mastery for a scientific topic, but also advanced writing skills.
3. Tutoring or Working with Younger Students on STEM topics
As a pre-med student, having a strong grasp of biology, chemistry, and mathematics is essential. Tutoring or mentoring peers, especially in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) subjects, demonstrates leadership, communication skills, and a passion for helping others learn. It also reinforces your own understanding of the material and can give you valuable teaching experience—an important skill for future physicians who will often need to explain complex concepts to patients and colleagues.
4. Work with Local, National, or International Medical or Public Health Nonprofits
Joining a nonprofit organization that works toward improving public health or advancing medical research is another great way to gain relevant experience. Many health-related nonprofits are looking for volunteers to assist with fundraising, organizing events, or providing educational outreach. By working with these organizations, you’ll not only contribute to meaningful causes but also expand your understanding of healthcare issues on a societal level.
5. Summer Programs
Many universities, hospitals, and medical schools offer summer programs specifically designed for high school students interested in health and medicine. These programs can give you exposure to medical school coursework, offer opportunities to work with medical professionals, and provide an introduction to the various fields within medicine. Participating in a reputable summer program can significantly enhance your application and give you insight into what a medical career entails.
Concluding Thoughts
When it comes to extracurricular activities, it’s not about doing everything—it’s about pursuing opportunities that genuinely interest you and help you develop the skills needed to succeed in medicine. Admissions committees want to see that you are committed to helping others, are proactive in seeking relevant experiences, and have a genuine passion for the field. So, whether you’re volunteering in a hospital, participating in research, or shadowing doctors, every experience you gain will bring you closer to your goal of becoming a pre-med student and eventually a physician.