How to increase chances for getting into a good pre-med school
I'm a freshman in high school at a good private school. I want to be some sort of surgeon, potentially a pediatric neurosurgeon, and I have wanted to go to Notre Dame since I was really, really young. I have not participated in many curriculars this year, but I know most colleges look for dedication to one thing throughout high school. Does anyone have any recommendations for what type of non-athletic extracurriculars I should look for? I want to enjoy them, but I just need some guidance to start looking. I'm already on the flag team and I am going to apply for the Health Honors Society next year (sophomore is the minimum you can apply at). So, anyway, thanks, and any advice is appreciated!
Hi Friend!
I know its hard to find extracurriculars that dont involve sports or athletics, I have also had trouble with that. I would recommend any type of volunteering (especially if it relates to what you want to do in the future) . For me that looks like babysitting, missions trips, camp counseling, tutoring, and other things with kids, because I want to teach. I think the health honors society is an awesome idea, some other of my ideas include:
Clinical Volunteering (Patient Interaction):
Hospital/Clinic Volunteering: Directly helping in hospitals, nursing homes, or hospices is highly valued.
Red Cross: Participating in blood drives or health campaigns.
Shadowing Physicians: Observing professionals in various specialties (e.g., primary care, surgery) helps confirm interest in the field.
Aim for consistent shadowing rather than one-time visits to build relationships for future letters of recommendation.
Science Research & Academics:
Science Fairs/Competitions: Participating in local or national science fairs.
Research Internships: Seeking summer programs at local universities or hospitals, particularly in biology or medicine.
Health-Related Clubs & Organizations:
HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America): Engaging in health-focused competitions and leadership.
Medical/Biology Clubs: Starting or leading an anatomy, neuroscience, or medical exploration club at school.
Community Service & Leadership:
Non-Clinical Volunteering: Tutoring, working at food banks, or helping in under-served communities demonstrates dedication and empathy.
Leadership Roles: Taking initiative in any organization to show responsibility
thank you!
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