Healthcare
Volunteer and Adventure

What to do during a gap year before medical school

GVI

Posted: December 14, 2022

There are many ways that students can spend their gap year before medical school. Some students choose to work or volunteer in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital or clinic, to gain practical experience and exposure to the medical field. Others may choose to travel or study abroad to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Some students may also use their gap year to focus on personal development, such as improving their physical fitness or learning new skills.

Taking a gap year before medical school can also be an excellent opportunity for students to relax and recharge before embarking on the challenging journey of medical school. It can provide students with a chance to take a break from academic studies and pursue other interests, such as hobbies or sports.

A gap year before medical school can be a great opportunity to gain valuable experiences and prepare for the rigours of medical school. But what should you do during this time? Here are some ideas to consider:

Healthcare internships and volunteering

Consider taking on internships or volunteer positions in healthcare settings. This will give you hands-on experience in the field, as well as the chance to develop important skills like communication and critical thinking. Plus, it will make you a more competitive applicant when it comes time to apply to medical school.

One option to consider for your gap year before medical school is a public health internship with an organisation like GVI. These internships provide hands-on experience on public health education, as well as the opportunity to work alongside healthcare professionals and gain valuable skills. Plus, by participating in a GVI internship, you’ll be making a positive impact on sustainable global health projects around the world. It’s a great way to gain experience and make a difference at the same time.

Classes and workshops

Another option is to take classes or workshops to enhance your knowledge and skills. For example, you could enrol in classes on anatomy, physiology, or biology to get a head start on the material you’ll be studying in medical school. Or, you could take workshops on things like suturing or patient communication to gain practical skills that will be useful in your future career. There are many courses available, so be sure to do your research and find the ones that are right for you.

Travel and work abroad

You may also want to spend some time travelling or working abroad during your gap year. Not only can this be a fun and enriching experience, but it can also broaden your horizons and give you a new perspective on healthcare and the world.

If you’re considering travelling during your gap year before medical school, there are many opportunities to do so. One option is to take classes or workshops abroad, where you can gain valuable knowledge and skills while also immersing yourself in a new culture. This will not only give you a head start on the material you’ll be studying in medical school, but it will also expose you to different perspectives on healthcare.

Explore your interests

Additionally, use your gap year to explore your interests and passions outside of healthcare. This could include pursuing hobbies, joining clubs or organisations, or taking on leadership roles. Not only will this help you stay well-rounded, but it will also give you something to talk about in your medical school interviews and make you a more interesting applicant. Plus, it will allow you to have some fun and blow off steam before diving into the intense world of medical school.

Overall, a gap year before medical school is a great opportunity to gain valuable experiences, develop important skills and explore your interests. By taking on internships, classes and pursuing your passions, you can make the most of this time and set yourself up for success in medical school and beyond. So don’t be afraid to get out there and make the most of your gap year!

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