Beyond the Classroom

Medical school admissions committees seek students who have gained broad experiences outside the classroom. Right now, admissions committees seek students who demonstrate a keen interest in clinical medicine and who show the social and personal characteristics that would enable them to excel as physicians in the 21st century. For example, they seek students who work well as members of a team, and those who are able to communicate effectively with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

Combined degree (MD/Ph.D.) program admissions committees seek applicants who have demonstrated the potential to contribute as a researcher. To demonstrate this and to make sure that they enjoy research, those considering a career in academic medicine must assist in biomedical research before they apply to medical school. Since applicants to MD/Ph.D. programs could pursue a Ph.D. alone, rather than an MD/Ph.D. they must also show an interest in clinical medicine.