hey! I came across a program online atlanis and gap medics. Both of the programs are medical programs where you pay to go to different country for 2 weeks like Poland, Peru, or the Domican republic and get a hands on experience shadowing doctors. If I do it will it look good on my college application? do you think colleges will like it? I really want to shadow doctors in a different country and see the different health care that is there.
It’s not something you really need to do for UF. Volunteering at your local hospital or health clinic would be fine.
Once you’re at UF, you will have access to plenty of these type of international programs, via study abroad. I would recommend a college related program over something like Gap Medics.
As Gator88NE said, I really think volunteering abroad won’t impact your application any more than local volunteering. Colleges know that not everyone has the money to afford international volunteer programs. Volunteering at a local clinic should be plenty sufficient.
Sounds like a cool idea, but I would definitely save your money and go for a study abroad at UF! I’m interested in going abroad in college as well cause the thought of other cultures fascinates me.
Good luck to all your endeavors!
Last summer, I met one of the admissions officers for the UF medical school, and he specifically mentioned that they would rather see you volunteer in your hometown rather than fly to Central or South America. Based on what he said, it makes more sense to volunteer several weekends in your hometown (and show a commitment) rather than doing a one-shot deal out of the country.
Thank you so much!!