<p>I want to go somewhere like Africa or South America to help with vaccination or something of that sort, but I can't find a program that is free lol. I am not trying to force it, but I think it would be a good experience but I don't have 1 or 2k to travel. Also, time is important. I need a short trip during the summer (month of august preferably) or during J-term. Anyone know of a program like this? I can pay maybe 500 max (I'm entering in this fall as a 2nd year by the way)</p>
<p>Oh and does anyone know of any summer internships opportunities where I could research and shadow in Minnesota ?</p>
<p>It’s been done before and will not make you stand out or give you an edge in admissions.</p>
<p>These programs are not free and have true costs far in excess of the amount you suggest and short of programs like the Morehead or Robertson Scholars (or similar copycat programs) no one funds this type of summer experience …and those programs that do are 10-13 weeks long. They are looking for true passion not resume building.</p>
<p>You keep looking for a hook…you’re trying too hard…makes me wonder…is there an application weakness you’re trying to hide?</p>
<p>The main problem with participating in programs in Africa or South America is the cost of travel. RT to Africa will run around $2000. RT to SA will run around $800 and up depending upon your final destination.</p>
<p>Mexico would be less expensive, but Mexico isn’t a good place to be right now.</p>
<p>@eadad…I’m not looking for a resume builder. I just want to do it. It seems rewarding and fun, many say so. I already have my hooks by the way. I am a URM (black male to be specific), I have begun to start a mentoring program which will be ready by september, I lead 7 programs designed to further academics and leadership in urban youth as apart of 4-H (including S.T.E.M), the largest youth development organization in america. And I probably will start up my own S.T.E.M at a school a couple blocks down the street from me who really need it due to low test scores. I just like medicine and helping people, thats why I want to become a doctor. Seeking more opportunities shouldn’t be viewed as hiding a bad spot in my resume. My GPA is high and I am certain it will remain that way and I plan to do good on MCAT, so there isn’t much to hide. </p>
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<p>DW</p>
<p>Did not intend to offend…you just seem to be (come off as) trying too hard despite the fact that you already have the GPA, ECs and a MAJOR hook…focus on your MCAT prep and LORs and most importantly, enjoy what is left of your undergrad and free time…Med school is a grind and your free time will be at a premium very shortly. You don’t want to burn out before getting there.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>OP, agree with eadad. You have had almost all pieces required for your application in place, with the exception of the MCAT score only. So just concentrate your effforts on MCAT preparation. With a high MCAT score as compared to your competitors, you will have your pick of medical school to attend at the end of the application cycle. There is really no need to over-invest in your situation.</p>
<p>In other word, in your situation, investing your time on MCAT preparation will probably yield the most for you in the near future. (One data point here: An African American applicant applying this year got into ONLY 3 Ivies, probably with a credential lower than yours.)</p>
<p>@eadad…no I wasnt taking offense, I just wanted to let you know that everyother med thing I want to do is only because I enjoy it as I already found my hooks. I understand people burn themselves out, but I would like to travel because I NEVER traveled before not even across america lol.Going to africa or peru…would be good, and if I could help out while there that would be even better. But it seems as if there are no cheap options so forget it. </p>
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