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 Yes, let's.
If you don't get clinical experience, it's very likely that
you won't be accepted into medical school. Every future
medical student should make the time to volunteer at a
community service or not-for-profit organization. Not only
does this provide actual, hands-on experience in a related
field, but it also exposes you to real patients with real
infirmities.
Don't Shed
Volun-tears
Face it. You are going to have to work for free. Maybe that
seems like a waste of time. Consider yourself fortunate.
Not only do you benefit from clinical experience, but you
get to lend a hand as well. Think of it as a rare honor, as
an undergraduate, to act as a genuine member of the team.
Don't mope because you're losing valuable study or social
time. The last thing a clinical care facility needs is a
complainer. And just imagine what terminally ill patients
at the facility will think of that "poor, suffering"
college student.
Think Locally
There are more places to volunteer than you might think.
Make some calls in your community, specifically to
facilities and organizations that care for the chronically
ill. Pick an organization or community service group that
interests you. Don't grab the first opportunity that comes
along just because it's an open door. Consider a few
options before making your choice. Of course, if a chance
that's too good to be true comes along, definitely go for
it.
Be Prepared to
Commit
Working for free doesn't come without its costs. You'll
have to give up some part of your day in order to devote
the time to clinical experience. This means re-thinking
your schedule and juggling yet another activity. What's
different about this activity, however, is that you must
take it seriously. Sure, you can blow off club meetings if
you have something more important to do—but clinical
experience should become that "more important" thing to do
(second only to studying for your classes).
Something else to think about is the bigger picture.
Many clinical programs may require up to a year commitment,
so make sure you have the time you need set aside to gain
this clinical experience.
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