Clinical experience is one of the most important components of a pre-health (pre-med, pre-dental, pre-PA, etc.) student’s preparation. It shows
admissions committees that you’ve observed patient care, understand the healthcare environment, and are committed to the profession.
Direct Clinical Experience
These involve interacting with patients or being in a medical environment. Examples:
Observing physicians, dentists, PAs, veterinarians, etc. Atlantis
Helps you understand day-to-day responsibilities and specialties
Where to Look
Hospitals and Clinics: Reach out to the volunteer services departments; Ask about formal volunteer programs
or internship opportunities
University Pre-Health Office: Many schools have partner hospitals or affiliated programs; Ask about alumni in
healthcare who might offer shadowing
Cold Calling or E-mailing Providers: E-mail local doctors, dentists, or clinics expressing interest in shadowing; Include:
a brief intro, your goals, availability, and resume
Networking: Talk to professors, family, friends, or classmates for referrals; Attend pre-health club events or health career fairs
Online Resources: Remote shadowing platforms: e.g., Virtual Shadowing, HEAL (Health Education and Leadership) Shadowing, or Pre-Health Shadowing. Search “medical volunteer programs near me” or at major
hospitals (Mayo, Cleveland Clinic, etc.)
Be Strategic About Time and Commitment
Aim for at least 100–150 hours of clinical exposure before applying
Consistency > one-time experiences (e.g., 4 hrs/week for a semester is better than 1 week of intensive shadowing)
Mix depth (e.g., long-term scribe or CNA) with breadth (e.g., shadow 3–4 different specialties)
Make It Count
Reflect and Take Notes: Keep a journal of what you saw, how it made you feel, and what you learned. These
reflections help with personal statements and interviews
Be Professional: Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be respectful. Follow HIPAA regulations
and don’t use phones in clinical areas
Ask Questions Thoughtfully: After patient encounters (not during), ask providers about clinical decisions, career
path, or advice
Volunteer Roles (accessible + flexible) Hospital volunteering, Hospice care, Nursing homes, Community health clinics
Document Your Experience
Keep a running list with: Dates, Locations, Role/title, Supervisor/contact, Type of
experience, Hours completed. This will make your application and letters of recommendation
easier to compile later.
Research experience is a valuable asset for graduate school applications in health
careers because it shows intellectual curiosity, strengthens analytical and problem-solving
skills, and demonstrates the ability to contribute to evidence-based practice—an essential
foundation for advanced study and professional excellence in healthcare.
How to Find Research Opportunities?
Ask Professors, TAs, and fellow students: Express interest in their work; many welcome motivated students into their labs
Department Websites: Look at faculty research pages—e-mail those whose work aligns with your interests
Undergraduate Research Programs: Winthrop University has structured programs (e.g., SURE, SOURCE, honors research)
Pre-Health or Career Center: Advisors often know of available research positions or can help tailor your approach
External Programs: Look into national programs like: NIH Summer Internship Program REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) AMGEN Scholars CDC fellowships or internships
Experiential learning is essential for graduate school applications in health careers
because it transforms classroom knowledge into real-world insight, demonstrates a
genuine commitment to the profession, and cultivates critical skills like empathy,
communication, and clinical reasoning—qualities admissions committees seek in future
healthcare providers.
How to Find Clinical/Experiential Opportunities?
Shadowing: Ask family doctors, dentists, or specialists. Use hospital volunteer offices or
pre-health clubs to make connections.
Volunteering: Hospitals, clinics, public health departments, or nonprofits often need help. Choose
roles with patient interaction if possible.
Internships: Through your university or organizations like the American Red Cross, for example.
Scribing or Medical Assistant Jobs: Paid roles that offer front-line healthcare exposure.
Global or Service Learning Programs: Look for university-affiliated or accredited programs for safe, ethical experiences
abroad.
The early cultivation of authentic academic and professional relationships is not
only enriching in the present but also essential in opening doors to future opportunities.
Establishing strong, meaningful relationships with faculty, mentors, and supervisors
early in their academic journey is a critical investment in future success. Letters
of recommendation play a pivotal role in applications for graduate school, professional
programs, scholarships, internships, and jobs. These letters carry the most weight
when written by individuals who know a student well, not just their academic performance,
but also their character, work ethic, growth, and potential.
Building these relationships takes time and intentionality. By engaging in class discussions,
attending office hours, participating in research or campus initiatives, and seeking
out mentorship opportunities, students allow professors and mentors to gain a deeper
understanding of their strengths and goals. This familiarity enables recommenders
to write more personalized, compelling, and credible letters that can make a significant
difference in competitive selection processes.
Tips for Getting Great Letters of Recommendation
Choose the Right People
Science Faculty: Most schools require at least one or two from biology, chemistry, or related professors.
Professional: A letter from a professional in the area that you’ve shadowed is often required.
Others (Optional): A supervisor, research mentor, or non-science professor who knows you well.
Tip: Pick recommenders who know your work personally and can speak to your strengths with specific examples, not just your grade. LOR usually
initiate with a paragraph stating the relationship of the writer with you, in what
capacity they know you. The weight of the letter will be related to how well the writer
knows you.
Build Relationships Early
Attend office hours, engage in class discussions, and stay involved beyond assignments.
Shadow consistently and ask thoughtful questions about the profession.
Ask Early and Clearly
Ask at least 2–3 months in advance of your application deadline. It is considered rude to ask for a LOR with a short
frame of time between the request and the due date.
Be clear about what the letter is for (e.g., dental school) and why you are asking
them specifically. Example: “Would you feel comfortable writing a strong letter of recommendation for my dental
school application?”
Provide Supporting Materials
Your resume or CV
Personal statement or goals
Unofficial transcript (if relevant)
Deadline and submission instructions
Context (e.g., how the class/project relates to your goals)
Start with a Clear Purpose Your goal is to answer: Why do you want to become a ...? Be honest and specific—avoid clichés like “I want to help people” unless you back
it up with real stories. Many professions allow you to help people. Relating to why you chose a path in particular
is a must.
Tell Your Story Admissions committees want to know:
What shaped your interest in the career
What experiences confirmed that interest
What qualities will you bring to the profession?
Tip: Use a personal anecdote (e.g., a moment while shadowing or volunteering) to hook your reader and show your passion.
Show, Don’t Just Tell Instead of saying, “I’m compassionate and detail-oriented,” show how you demonstrated
those qualities through:
Think about how, through your personal experience, you can demonstrate: oral communication skills, written communication skills, initiative,
emotional maturity, teamwork, adaptability, discipline, leadership, professionalism,
sensitivity to others, energy, integrity, self-awareness, professional appearance,
planning and organizational ability, problem solving, perseverance, potential as a
teacher, potential as a researcher, originality, intellectual creativity, lab skills,
analytical skills, motivation, self-confidence, responsibility, dependability, general
knowledge, responsiveness to feedback, ability to work under pressure.
Stick to one central theme or thread that connects your experiences.
Avoid trying to list everything in your resume—choose the most meaningful moments.
Stay within the word limits. If not otherwise specified, a personal statement should
be about 2.5 pages. If specified, make sure to abide. Example: AADSAS limit: 4,500
characters (including spaces).
Revise and Get Feedback
Draft early and revise often.
Ask mentors, professors, or pre-health advisors to read it.
Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing or repetition.
End with Impact
Reflect on what you’ve learned.
Reaffirm your commitment to dentistry.
Look forward to how you’ll contribute to the profession.
Preparing for the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a major step on the path
to medical school. The best strategies combine content mastery, critical thinking, test-taking strategies, and mental endurance. Here’s a comprehensive guide:
Understand the MCAT Structure The MCAT is a 7.5-hour exam with four sections:
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems (Chem/Phys)
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (Bio/Biochem)
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Psych/Soc)
Each section is scored from 118 to 132 (total 472–528).
Master the Content Use the AAMC content outlines as your roadmap. Core Subjects to Study:
General Chemistry (stoichiometry, thermodynamics, acids/bases)
Anki flashcards (especially “Milesdown” or “Ortho528” decks)
Create a Study Schedule (3–6 Months) Tailor it to your availability. A full-time student might study 15–20 hours/week;
a gap-year applicant can often handle 30+ hours/week. Sample weekly structure:
3 days of content review
2 days of practice problems
1 day full-length or half-length exam
1 rest day or review/flashcards
Practice, Practice, Practice
Start with discrete practice questions (after each topic)
Transition to passage-based questions early on
Begin full-length exams 1–2 months in
Review every question, right or wrong, and identify patterns in your mistakes
Strengthen CARS
This section is notoriously difficult to "study for," but:
Practice daily with 2–3 passages
Focus on the main idea, tone, and the author’s argument
Use materials like Jack Westin or AAMC CARS Q Packs
Simulate Test Conditions
Take full-length tests (especially AAMC ones) under timed, quiet conditions
Use breaks exactly as you would on test day
Build endurance: MCAT fatigue is real
Take Care of Yourself
Sleep: at least 7–8 hours consistently
Exercise lowers stress and improves focus
Nutrition and hydration matter
Avoid burnout: schedule breaks and days off
Track and Adapt
Use a spreadsheet or app to track your scores and topics
Regularly update your schedule based on progress
Focus more on weak areas, but don't ignore strengths
Consider a Prep Course or Tutor
Great if you need structure, accountability, or struggle with self-paced learning
Free and low-cost options include Blueprint free resources, Khan Academy, and Reddit r/MCAT
Review Smart, Not Just Hard
Use active recall, spaced repetition (Anki), and concept maps
Don’t just reread notes—explain them out loud, teach them, quiz yourself
There are several excellent free or low-cost apps, websites, and tools to help you practice and prepare for the MCAT. Here's a breakdown by category:
Top Free MCAT Apps
Anki (with MCAT decks), Platform: iOS, Android, Desktop, Purpose: Spaced repetition flashcards, Best Decks: MilesDown (aligned with Khan Academy and AAMC content), Ortho528 (more comprehensive but dense). Tip: Use the AnkiWeb sync to switch between phone and computer.
MCAT Prep by MedSchoolCoach, Platform: iOS, Android, Features: 1,000+ practice questions, flashcards, progress tracking, Price: Free version includes lots of practice content.
UWorld (Free Trial), Platform: iOS, Android, Web, Known for: High-quality, realistic MCAT-style practice questions, Free Access: Includes a limited number of questions during trial; often worth signing up.
Khan Academy MCAT Collection, Features: 1,100+ free videos and practice questions on all MCAT topics, Highly recommended by the AAMC (even though it’s no longer being updated).
Jack Westin (CARS Practice), Features: Daily free CARS passages, strategy videos, and explanations. Highly recommended for improving CARS timing and reasoning.
MCAT Self-Prep, Features: Free study plan, video playlists, quizzes, Anki decks. Paid upgrades are available,
but the free tier is very usable.
Reddit: r/MCAT, Features: Study tips, shared resources, advice from high scorers. Often links to free materials
and community-made practice tests.
Notion / Google Sheets. Use these to track study progress, goals, and performance by topic
Pomodoro Apps (Focus Keeper, Forest). Great for structured study sessions (e.g., 25 min study / 5 min break cycles).
Instagram can be a great source of motivation, tips, and real-life insights into MCAT prep, application advice, and the medical school journey. The content, resources, and external links provided on this page are for informational
purposes only. They are offered as general suggestions related to the topic and do
not necessarily reflect the views, values, or official positions of Winthrop University
or its representatives. The university does not endorse, control, or assume responsibility
for any third-party content or sources referenced. Users are encouraged to exercise
their own judgment when engaging with the materials, critically evaluate all information,
and consult appropriate professionals when needed. Winthrop Policy link
@leah4sci. Leah Fisch (MCAT tutor). Practical MCAT prep strategies, study hacks, and live Q&A.
Strong physics and organic chemistry help.
@mcatbros. Free tips and memes to make prep lighter. Focuses on content clarity, motivation,
and consistency. Includes live MCAT tutoring and webinars.
@pre_med_motivation. Quotes, success stories, and student features. Keeps morale up during tough study
days. Good mental health and resilience content
@futuremdlife. Run by a medical student. Honest day-in-the-life content, MCAT prep reflections.
Application process breakdowns and productivity tips.
@melanin.in.medicine. Uplifting and educational. Focused on supporting Black and underrepresented premeds.
Shares MCAT and med school tips with a strong community feel.
@medschoolcoach. Premed advice, MCAT & USMLE study tips and resources
@medicine4youth. Resources and empowerment for youth in medicine
@medschoolinsiders. From the well-known YouTube/website. Study strategies, time management, and admissions
tips. Includes video recaps and infographics
@premedplug. Content summaries, MCAT tips, and study motivation. Flashcards, diagrams, and reminders
of key MCAT facts
@themdjourney. Time management and study systems
@dr.Z_neurosurgery. Former Biology student at Winthrop
A strong CV for a pre-med student will showcase their academic achievements, relevant
experiences (including clinical, research, and volunteer work), and demonstrate the
qualities essential for success in medical school and as a future physician.
Contact Information
Full legal name.
Current address, phone number, and professional email address.
Relevant links (e.g., LinkedIn profile, if applicable).
Education
List all institutions attended after high school in reverse chronological order (most
recent first).
Include the name of the institution, city, state, degree received, major/minor, and
dates of attendance (or expected graduation date).
Mention academic achievements like GPA, honors (e.g., Dean's List), awards, and relevant
coursework.
Include MCAT scores.
Experience
Clinical Experience: This is crucial and demonstrates direct patient interaction.
Examples include volunteering in a hospital, clinic, hospice, patient transport roles,
working as an EMT or CNA, or participating in international health experiences like
Global Medical Brigades.
Focus on what you did, how you contributed, and the skills gained (e.g., communication,
empathy, taking vitals, assisting with patient care).
Quantity matters: Aim for at least 150 hours of clinical experience, ideally 300+
to be highly competitive.
Research Experience: This demonstrates scientific inquiry and critical thinking.
Include position title, research lab/department, institution, dates of involvement,
and a description of your role and responsibilities.
Examples include working as a research assistant, conducting experiments, analyzing
data, performing literature reviews, and collaborating on projects.
Leadership Experience: Demonstrates your ability to take initiative and work effectively within groups.
List leadership positions held in student organizations, volunteer groups, or other
initiatives.
Describe your responsibilities and achievements in these roles.
Examples include launching a mentorship program, fixing a broken system in a club,
or taking initiative in a lab or clinic.
Work Experience (if applicable): If you've had other professional experiences, particularly those demonstrating transferable
skills, include them.
Publications and Presentations
List any articles, abstracts, or research papers authored or co-authored, following
a consistent citation format (e.g., APA).
Detail any presentations given at conferences or seminars, including the title, event
name, and date.
Skills and Certifications
List technical skills (e.g., programming languages, software proficiency) and other
relevant skills like communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Include certifications such as CPR/AED or EMT.
Honors and Awards
Mention any awards, scholarships, or recognitions received.
Extracurricular Activities and Interests (Optional)
This section allows you to showcase your personality and passions outside of medicine,
demonstrating a well-rounded profile.
Choose activities that highlight desirable qualities like creativity, discipline,
emotional resilience, or teamwork.
Tips for Creating a Strong Pre-Med CV
Format: Use a clean, professional font and leave plenty of white space. Keep the CV concise
(1-2 pages) and organized with clear headings and a reverse-chronological order in
each section.
Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your contributions and the impact of
your work.
Tailor the CV: Adjust your CV to emphasize experiences that align with the specific values and
focus areas of each medical school you apply to.
Reflect and Connect: Don't just list activities; reflect on what you learned, how it changed your perspective,
and what values it reinforced.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure your CV is error-free and ask others to proofread it as well.
Start Early: Begin compiling and updating your CV early in your undergraduate career.
By crafting a comprehensive and compelling CV that highlights your relevant experiences
and skills, you can significantly enhance your medical school application and increase
your chances of acceptance.
Below you will find the description of a resume and a CV, so you can understand the
difference:
A resume is typically 1–2 pages.
Used to apply for most jobs in the U.S. and Canada—especially in industry, business, government, and non-profits.
Focuses on skills, achievements, and work experience relevant to a specific job. It's highly customizable.
Tailored to each position; selective and strategic.
United States/Canada: Résumé is standard for most job applications. CV is used for academic or research roles.
Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia: "CV" is often used to mean what Americans would call a résumé.
A CV can be 2 pages to many pages, especially for academic or research-focused professionals.
Used for academic, research, medical, and scientific positions. Also required when applying for grants, fellowships, or graduate/medical school.
Presents a comprehensive record of one’s entire career history, including education, research, publications, presentations, teaching, honors, professional affiliations, etc.
Generally not customized per job—used to showcase complete qualifications.
United States/Canada: Résumé is standard for most job applications. CV is used for academic or research roles.
Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia: "CV" is often used to mean what Americans would call a résumé.
The terms are sometimes interchangeable, but the format still tends to be longer and
more detailed.
Knowing a program well before applying—whether it’s a PA school, medical school, or other health professions program—can give you a major strategic advantage. It allows you to tailor your application, demonstrate genuine interest, and show
that you're an excellent match for what they offer. Knowing a program well will provide
you with the following key strengths and benefits:
Stronger, More Personalized Application
You can align your personal statement with the school’s mission, values, and focus areas (e.g., underserved populations, primary care, research).
You can mention specific aspects of the program (e.g., a unique course, clinical rotation site, service initiative,
or simulation training).
Makes your application stand out as thoughtful and well-informed.
Better Interviews
Demonstrating that you’ve researched the program helps you ask thoughtful questions and speak confidently about why you’re a good fit.
Shows initiative and maturity—admissions committees want students who are intentional and committed.
Demonstrates Genuine Interest
Admissions teams can often tell who’s genuinely interested versus who applied to dozens of programs without doing research.
Knowing the program well shows you're serious about their specific training and culture, not just getting in anywhere.
Helps You Decide If It’s a Good Fit
Learning about the curriculum, teaching style, clinical opportunities, location, and
support systems helps you avoid applying to a program that doesn’t match your needs
or goals.
Prevents wasted time and money on unsuitable applications.
Reinforces Fit with Their Mission Many programs have strong commitments to:
Primary care
Rural or underserved communities
Diversity, equity, and inclusion
Research and academic medicine
If your background or goals align with theirs, knowing this allows you to highlight it in your application.
Stronger Letters of Interest or Secondaries If the program requires a supplemental essay, your knowledge allows you to write something specific and compelling: “I’m especially drawn to your program’s emphasis on interprofessional collaboration
through its partnerships with [X Hospital or School of Nursing], which aligns with
my experience working on interdisciplinary teams during my clinical training as a
scribe.”
Helps You Build Relationships Early
If you reach out to admissions staff, attend info sessions, or visit campus, you begin
forming early impressions and connections that may help down the line.
