What Should Pre-Med Students Do in The Summer?

Things to Do the Summer Before Medical School

Not sure what to do during the summer leading up to your first year of med school? Take a look at our top suggestions!

1. Reflect and Reset

Use this time for some well-earned relaxation. You've made it through the rigorous pre-med curriculum and the grueling medical school application process, which means you deserve a break. Reflect on your accomplishments, rest, and reset your mind. After all, a calm mind absorbs information better.

2. Brush Up on Your Study Skills

Medical school is a whole new ball game. The amount of information, terminology and jargon you need to learn can feel overwhelming, and it's all coming at you at breakneck speed. 

Spend your summer before medical school brushing up on study skills that will serve you well in this new environment. Experiment with techniques like flashcards, concept maps, or the Pomodoro method until you find what works best.

3. Start Networking

Establishing a network with peers, mentors, and professionals can offer immense benefits. It not only helps in gaining valuable insights but also in building lasting friendships. 

Attend pre-medical school orientations, connect with your future classmates, or contact mentors for advice on making the most of your medical school experience.

4. Plan Your Schedule

Plan out your schedule in advance. While you won't have your entire schedule before classes begin, you can adjust your schedule. Prioritize your time for studying, extracurricular activities, and personal care. Time management is essential in medical school, and planning your schedule is an excellent place to start.

5. Stay Healthy

Your health, both physical and mental, is critical. If you’re not feeling well, it will be hard to focus on anything, let alone the rigors of medical school. 

Set healthy habits, incorporate physical activity into your routine, eat a balanced diet, and don't forget about your mental health. Practicing mindfulness or other stress-management techniques can be helpful.

6. Explore the City

If you're moving to a new place, take some time to explore your new city. Familiarize yourself with the location of important places like grocery stores, hospitals, parks, and your school campus. Getting acclimated to your surroundings will make the transition easier once medical school begins.

The summer before medical school is a time for preparation and relaxation. It's a chance to catch your breath before the next chapter begins. Enjoy this transition to medical school!

FAQs: What to Do During the Summer as a Pre-Med

The journey to medical school is a challenging one. As a pre-med student, it's crucial to use your time effectively, especially during the summer. But what should pre-med students do in the summer? Here's a comprehensive guide to answer that question.

1. What to Do During the Summer as a Pre-Med?

As a pre-med student, summer is an invaluable time to advance your academic and professional skills. You can participate in research or clinical experiences, take a few pre-med courses, or even work with a tutor to help you prepare for the MCAT. 

Of course, be sure to take some time to yourself; it’s still summer break, after all! You can spend some time pursuing your favorite hobbies, take care of your mental and physical health, or even travel to a new city.

Remember, what matters most is quality, not quantity. Choose activities that genuinely interest you and can contribute to your growth as an aspiring physician.

2. Do Med Schools Look Down on Summer Classes?

One of the frequently asked questions is whether medical schools look down on summer classes. The short answer is no. Schools generally understand that students have diverse educational paths and varying circumstances. Taking pre-med summer classes demonstrates initiative and commitment to learning.

Summer classes offer a unique chance to focus on complex subjects and gain a deeper understanding. It's an opportunity to boost your GPA, cover prerequisites, or learn new things. However, ensure these classes consume only some of your summer. Balance is key to making the most out of your summer break.

3. Should Pre-Med Students Work During the Summer?

Yes, pre-med students can benefit significantly from summer employment. Jobs and internships provide valuable real-world experiences, helping students develop necessary soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Work experience in a healthcare setting can be particularly beneficial. Whether it's a job at a local clinic, hospital, or research lab, these roles provide insights into the medical field, augmenting classroom learning. Remember, it's not just about earning money but also about acquiring skills and experiences to enhance your med school application.

4. How Can Pre-Med Students Use the Summer to Prepare for the MCAT?

Another excellent way pre-med students can utilize their summer is by preparing for the MCAT. This crucial exam requires in-depth knowledge and understanding of various subjects. Hence, dedicating a portion of your summer to focused study can be beneficial.

Create a study schedule that focuses on areas of weakness. Use this time to take practice tests, review complex concepts, and develop test-taking strategies. There are several online resources and study groups available to assist you in your preparation. Remember, the MCAT is not just about memorization but understanding and applying concepts.

5. Should Pre-Med Students Consider Shadowing Doctors During the Summer?

Absolutely! Shadowing doctors is an invaluable experience for any pre-med student. It allows you to witness the day-to-day life of a medical professional, providing a realistic view of what to expect.

Summer is an excellent time to arrange for these experiences. Shadowing can help you understand various specialties, learn about patient interaction, and get a feel for the hospital or clinic environment. These experiences can be a decisive factor in confirming your desire to pursue a career in medicine.

6. Should I Study the Summer Before Medical School?

The summer before med school is a particular time. Most of you might be contemplating using this time to get a head-start on your studies. But here's some food for thought. 

You're about to embark on a rigorous, academically challenging journey. Many professionals suggest that you take this time to rest, relax, and recharge before the demanding medical school life begins.

The transition to medical school can be challenging, but you'll have plenty of time to hit the books once the semester begins. Over-studying in the summer won't necessarily give you a significant advantage, but it can contribute to early burnout. 

Your primary focus this summer should be on wellness and self-care. It's crucial to start medical school feeling refreshed, not exhausted. 

7. What Should I Do the Month Before Medical School?

Let's talk about that crucial last month before medical school starts. This is a pivotal time to ensure you're logistically and mentally prepared for what's ahead. 

Consider tying up loose ends, ensuring your finances are in order, securing accommodation, and completing your course enrollment. Also, familiarize yourself with the school's location, hospitals, and local amenities. 

Moreover, connect with your future classmates. Social media or school-provided resources can facilitate this. Creating a supportive network from the outset will be invaluable during your medical school journey.

Lastly, engage in activities you enjoy. Once school starts, your time for hobbies may diminish. Whether hiking, reading, painting or any other activity, the month before school is a perfect time to indulge in what brings you joy.

8. How Can I Prepare for the Transition to Medical School During the Summer?

Preparation for the transition to medical school is more about mental readiness than academic preparation. It's about understanding and accepting the challenges and building strategies to handle them.

Start by setting realistic expectations. Medical school will be demanding, both intellectually and emotionally. Recognize that there will be days when things feel overwhelming, and that's okay.

Another critical aspect of preparation involves establishing a healthy lifestyle. Cultivate habits like regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and a regular sleep schedule. These habits will be pivotal in handling stress and maintaining energy levels.

Lastly, develop strong time management skills. Efficient use of your time will be crucial once you start medical school, so it's worth practicing these skills over the summer.