For students applying to BS-MD or BA-MD programs, it's important that your application demonstrates a dedicated interest and shows intellectual pursuits in the medical field, as well as having activities that highlight concern and compassion for the community. Activities that can cover these areas may include research, internships, job shadowing, volunteering, or an entrepreneurial endeavor.

It can also be beneficial if your extracurriculars include activities and awards outside of healthcare and community service, to show you are an individual with varied interests. If you had a personal or family situation related to why you want to pursue medicine, consider communicating that as well.

Here are examples of extracurriculars based on real students who were accepted into BS-MD programs (specific names of schools, facilities, and locations are withheld to respect privacy):

Extracurriculars Demonstrating an Interest in Medicine

  • Leukemia and lymphoma research at a cancer center
  • Research under a university professor on the impact of maternal nutrition on fetal development
  • Shadowed doctors in cardiology, oncology, and primary care at medical centers, hospitals, and private practices
  • Volunteered weekly for two years at a pediatric clinic serving a low-income community
  • Worked in a research lab and published findings in a peer-reviewed journal
  • Board member for an organization providing respite care to early Alzheimer's clients
  • Counselor at a summer camp for children with disabilities
  • First place at County Science Fair — a project on microbiology and water purification
  • Responsible for the care of a grandfather with Alzheimer's and diabetes, including daily blood sugar checks

Activities Demonstrating Varied Interests Outside of Healthcare

  • First-chair violinist in the city's youth symphony orchestra
  • Placed second in the U.S. at the National Beta Club Convention
  • Student council and student body president in 12th grade
  • Formed a student TED Talk club
  • President of the school's Habitat for Humanity club
  • All-state track team, holding the school record for the mile

If your career goal is to become a medical professional, we offer a complimentary phone call with one of our expert BS/MD advisors.