<p>Ok everyone I just joined up to ask a few questions and hopefully get some good answers. Lately I've been contemplating my future and it feels like I'm too set in my track to medical school and I need some interesting life experiences. I was wondering if it's possible to take time off after my undergrad years to do something else, such as join the marines (as an officer) for a few years. What affect would that have on my chances of going to medical school?</p>
<p>I mean, yeah go for it. Lots of people apply after time off after college. Military service can be a plus, but I’d recommend not waiting until you are 40 to apply.</p>
<p>Why not go for the HPSP scholarship and have the military pay for your schooling? In my understanding, if you achieve a higher rank (than 2nd LT) prior to entering med school, you lose that progress anyway (in terms of rank), so it’s probably best to go directly in and get the military training while in med school (if you’re interesting in joining the military anyway).</p>