What are Some Good Places for High Schoolers to Volunteer That Prepare Them for Medical School?

Volunteering during high school is not just about building hours to impress medical schools; it’s also about gaining a foundational understanding of healthcare and developing essential skills that are crucial for a medical career. While not all volunteer experiences need to be directly related to healthcare, certain activities can provide valuable insights and experiences that align with the values and competencies sought by medical schools.

Volunteering in a Diverse Range of Settings

From blood donations to mental health support, the opportunities for high school students to contribute to their communities are vast. Successful applicants to medical schools often have a diverse mix of experiences, such as volunteering at the Canadian Blood Donors, Salvation Army Centre of Hope, Calgary Drop In Centre, Food Bank, or SHARP Foundation. These experiences demonstrate a commitment to community service and a genuine interest in making a positive impact, which are highly valued by medical school admissions committees.

Broadening Your Horizons with Healthcare Exposure

Medical schools are looking for individuals who are not only academically competent but also well-rounded, compassionate, and capable of working effectively in a team. To that end, it’s beneficial for high school students to gain a broad understanding of various health professions early on. Volunteering or even working in a nursing home can be an excellent starting point. You might even consider obtaining CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) training. This hands-on experience can provide a solid foundation and show your dedication to the field.

Volunteering in Specific Healthcare Settings

Nursing Home:
Volunteering in a nursing home offers a chance to interact with elderly patients, learn about their health needs, and understand the role of healthcare professionals in their care. Additionally, some nursing homes offer training programs for CNA certification. Home Health:
Volunteering with home health services can give you a deeper understanding of how healthcare is provided in a non-institutional setting and can be very rewarding. Meals on Wheels:
This volunteer opportunity can help you see firsthand the challenges faced by elderly or homebound individuals and the importance of supportive healthcare services. Hospice:
Volunteering at a hospice can offer a profound experience in end-of-life care and can help you develop empathy and compassion, which are critical traits in healthcare. Community Clinics:
Places like Planned Parenthood or other community clinics provide excellent opportunities to see healthcare in action and interact with diverse patients and healthcare providers.

Obtaining Hands-On Experience in Professional Settings

Volunteering or even being paid in healthcare settings, such as nursing homes and hospitals, can be highly beneficial. Additionally, many ambulance services have programs that allow volunteers to accompany ambulances, providing real-life healthcare experiences. Another idea is to arrange to spend time helping at your local orthodontist, optometrist, or dentist. The DPM Mentors Network can also help you find opportunities in podiatry if that’s an interest of yours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best places for high schoolers to volunteer to prepare for medical school are diverse and include settings that offer healthcare experiences, personal interaction with patients, and inter-professional teamwork. By choosing the right volunteer opportunities, you can not only build your resume but also gain valuable skills and insights that will be beneficial in your future medical career.