Since I was 10, I have wanted to be a doctor seeing how they could change lives. I am currently a freshman and really want to get into the Brown PLME or the Northwestern HPME. If you got in, could you please share your stats specifically your ECs.
Also, what are some medical / biology competitions I can do that I can get some awards in?
The following are something I have done/ planning on doing.
- Working at a doctor's office (have worked for 2 years) getting mammograms and colonoscopies done
- Working with other doctors I know to get an internships and working with them to get some research papers published. I hope to get 3 papers by senior year.
- Hold an online seminar inviting people from all over the country to discuss STEM innovations and the research that I have conducted.
- Tutor Afghan Refugees on high school and STEM concepts (I know a few)
- Go to a 3rd world country and volunteer at a hospital (Africa or Pakistan)
- Run a free clinic for people without insurance
- Volunteer at a hospital and shadow doctors (Oncologist)
- Create nonprofit organization for cancer and cardiovascular work
- Run a bone marrow drive
- 2 Patents Pending (medical field)
Planning on
- Hold a play for cancer patients to express themselves
- Try Science Fair and do some research/ find a possible cure
Hi! I’m currently a sophmore in high school (Class of 2023) and I was aiming to get into Northwestern’s HPME as well. I was wondering how you were able to work at a doctor’s office in high school. I was looking into it, but a majority of sites said I had to be at least 18.
First, that’s a lot of ambition in a post. There is something to be said about high quality endeavors but you also need to find the time to do well in an Uber challenging curriculum. Rigor matters.
Secondly I would suggest following the threads under the Multiple degree programs. The advice there is beyond helpful.
Hi! I’m not qualified to answer this because I’m a rising senior (haven’t gotten into an PLME program), but some ideas for activities would be getting a paid job. You seem ambitious, and that’s extremely admirable and incredible. I think doing a normal job actually humanizes you and teaches you a lot of things you might not learn from volunteering in a third country or starting a nonprofit. Working at a local McDonalds or being a waitor/waitress at IHOP is something important to do. It’s important to cure diseases and start clinics, but sometimes making some money and supporting your family can be impressive too 
Sorry for the late replies but thanks for all your insight.
@hopefulpremed187 I was able to work at a doctor’s office because my aunt is a doctor so they found someone I could work with.
@chickenwings12, I agree I might work in a lab. I already work as a freelance graphic designer.