Short-term volunteering can be taken on in many forms in the community, clinical, and through involvement in a local non-profit, the list goes on and on. Short -term volunteering is not as highly regarded as long- term volunteering by medical schools due to the initiative and persistence commitment, especially long-term commitment is associated with. None the less short term still plays an important role in gaining volunteer experience.

 

This being said when getting involved with long-term volunteer work there are some questions to consider before you make the commitment and it is recommended you take into account:

 

• Does this apply to my future career?

• Do I want to participate in clinical or within my community?

•  Is there a way I can take a leadership position while volunteering?

• Is this going to give me experiences I will be able to recount to my benefit for my medical school application or interview?

 

Q/A:

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 I am not sure to volunteer within my community or clinical, but if I am doing this for medical school wouldn't clinical be better? 

The answer is no. A well-rounded applicant should aim to have some involvement in both. 

 

What if I only have time for short term?

It is ok! Getting invloved in short term is better than nothing! Eventually aim for long term but also take in account whatb is best for you.

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What is considered a leadeship role?

             Anything in which you are planning, overseeing, or given responsibility.