Importance of demonstrating leadership for medical school?

Question

Sup guys, I've been reading on activities one should participate in during undergrad. Being a premed myself, I understand the importance of research experience, clinical volunteering, gpa/mcat etc.

However, the stuff Ive read never mentions much about leadership roles. How important is leadership in applying to medical school? It was one of the most important factors EC-wise for getting into undergrad, so I would assume its important as well for medical school.

Any ideas, answers, experience?

Answer 1

My nephew just got into med school with very little in "leadership" EC.  He had good grades, was very heavy on research experience ... and did lots of non-team sports and music. He skis, kayaks, and plays guitar as a chick-magnet.

It's easy to spot those who are in an activity for the points and those who really like it.  If you aren't comfortable with the whole "leadership" thing ... Just do what you truly enjoy and it will show in an interview.

What no longer works is the "grind" ... the 4.0 student with no human side, no recreation, no sense of fun. They made very poor doctors.

Answer 2

Speaking from a long medical career - not as a physician, but as a Navy Corpsman...

Part of college acceptance (or job interviews) is sales and marketing. That means you have to package it well - marketing and you have to present it well - sales.

Before I continue, as a general principle, always take the hard jobs. You will learn a lot and get some recognition as a side effect.

All the accomplishments don't mean a thing unless the presentation is well-polished. Go to Linked In and look at some of the layouts there. Email me if you want my link. These are people that have been in the workforce for 10+ years. They know how to present their qualifications in the best light.

As to the admission process, I will leave that to the experts.

Last thing...

It's nice to have an "agent." Ideally, you want someone that is already in the medical school to vouch for you.

Aloha.