University of Michigan-Flint

Before fully committing yourself to premedical study, it is imperative that you obtain a value assessment of it in a real-world perspective. You might not like it—or you might find your ambitions reaffirmed, and approach your studies differently.

In addition to a rigorous academic focus, good grades, and social leadership, medical schools evaluate your commitment to medicine. It’s not enough to want to study medicine—you must demonstrate that your interests are grounded in relevant medical experience, confirming your resolute commitment to a medical career. Volunteering in medically related causes is one of the most sincere ways you have to demonstrate your commitment to a medical education.

By proving through your volunteer efforts that you have not only broadened your healthcare interests but deepened, sustained, and reinforced them, you will show that your commitment is genuine and your efforts are legitimate—basically, that you’re volunteering because you want to make a difference, not because it looks good.

In addition to the volunteer efforts of the Premed Club, our incredible University Outreach programs dig deep into our extended community. For example, MLK Day, which is promoted on campus as “a day of service, not a day off,” is a day when students get involved in local efforts to revitalize the city. Alternative Spring Break, held every year during the winter semester, is another great way to get involved.

One way to become involved in patient care is training to be an emergency medical technician. Local hospitals Genesys and McClaren offer affordable EMT courses. These are ideal because not only receive an introduction to the healthcare industry, but also become a stakeholder in patient care—allowing for you to gain experience with patients while forging useful hospital relationships.