Admissions committees are seeking students who push themselves and excel both in and out of the classroom.
The following guide for co-curricular activities is a reference to help you coordinate your efforts in order to prepare a competitive application for professional schools.
Pre-Professional Four-Year Co-Curricular Planner
College Year 1
Academic Year
- Declare a Pre-Professional Health Care Studies Minor
- Focus on academic success
- Seek opportunities to assist in scientific research
- Connect with student clubs focused on medical professions
- Explore options for careers in professional health care
- Explore medical professions coursework requirements and recommendations
- Explore early assurance programs
Summer
- Shadow, volunteer, or work in the health care field.
College Year 2
Academic Year
- Develop relationships with faculty and mentors. This is important for getting better letters of recommendation
- Start or continue to assist in research and to volunteer
- Apply for early assurance programs, as appropriate
Summer
- Continue to shadow, volunteer, or work in the health care field
- Participate in summer enrichment programs and research
- Review the process of applying to professional schools
- Create a long-term plan to study for the professional entrance exam (MCAT, DAT, PCAT, CCAT, OAT, GRE, etc.)
College Year 3
Academic Year
- Pursue leadership opportunities with student clubs focused on medical professions
- Request letters of recommendation from faculty and mentors
- Take on a more substantial role in research and volunteerism
- Plan your application timeline and materials, including your personal statement and interview preparation
- Register for a spring or early summer date for the professional entrance exam
- Visit campuses of schools of interest
Summer
- Take professional entrance exam
- Submit applications
College Year 4
Academic Year
- Prepare for interviews
- Upon acceptance, commit to the school of your choice
- Complete FAFSA and other financial aid forms
- Present and publish on your research project
- Continue to challenge yourself with rigorous coursework
Summer
- Submit final college transcript to your new program
- Make living arrangements and purchase all required items
- Attend orientation programs and matriculate into professional school
Return to Professional Healthcare Studies