<p>Which summer program is better for BSMD applicant - Summer surgery or summer research? </p>
<p>Firstly you should do the one you are interested in but I guess the type of research is important. If it is research on chick peas or something it may not weigh in as much as say cancer research. However, research is just good because of the way it trains your mind. Surgery gets you the clinical exposure which is good too.</p>
<p>Either way, I think what they look for is what did you get out of it? Which one ever you think you can reflect on the most and talk about is the best one to go for.</p>
<p>Ooops forgot to add - some BS/MD programs specifically require research to even qualify so make sure you find out ahead of time.</p>
<p>thank you @Midhelper. Your responses are very insightful and helpful.</p>
<p>100% recommend that you pursue a reseearch option. Plus, if you get published, it’ll help you on later in life such as when you are applying to residencies.</p>