I’d say taking as many opportunities that come your way and getting as much experience as possible. Volunteering is really important and it’s best to have a minimum of 6 months before you send off your application. The better your insight into Medicine the better your personal statement and interview performance will be – you can really see the difference between the applicants that truly explored Medicine and those that just scratched the surface.
Try to make sure you’ve done lots of extra-curricular activities and between them they cover the key qualities that are required of a doctor: teamwork, communication, caring role, listening etc.
Make sure you reflect on all your experiences as thoroughly as you can, note down details of patient encounters and reflect on your own qualities as much as possible because these reflections will help you immensely when it comes to writing your PS and your interviews. When I talk about reflecting I’m not just referring your work experience, but absolutely anything Medicine whether that’s a book you’ve read, a news article, a medical debate that you were reflecting. I reflected on absolutely everything on this blog, if you’re interested in reading my reflections as a medical school applicant click here.
The more you build yourself that portfolio of reflections now the more you’ll thank yourself later.
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