Premed.blog by MedAngle Premed
How To Find Extracurriculars as an MDCAT Aspirant
As MDCAT aspirants, it’s easy to feel like every ounce of our energy should go into studying for the big exam. With this mindset, endless hours of studying, multiple revisions, and practice questions can become the only highlights of our day. But here's the thing, even during this intense period, it’s crucial to maintain balance in your life.
Remember the old saying, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”? Well, it does hold a lot of value, especially for students like us gearing up for such a significant exam. Rather than considering these as a waste of time and energy, it’s important to remember that taking breaks and engaging in extracurricular activities can boost your productivity and keep you sane.
Now, here comes the second step. How do you find those extracurriculars that match your taste and liking? This can be a little challenging but not impossible! It’s all about the right awareness. There is a certain degree of truth in that most of our education institutes do not focus on providing such out-of-the-school opportunities for their bright minds.
But does that mean one should give up on finding internships and extracurriculars? The answer is NO. I'm sure you're wondering how one can find legitimate and useful opportunities online and on-site. There are a large number of opportunities you can find. One just has to look for it. The following are some great ways to find internships of your interest.
1. LinkedIn Connections
Although the corporate world mostly uses LinkedIn, it is also incredibly beneficial for finding people in your field of interest and connecting with them. You can find professionals relevant to your area and reach out to them about any research opportunities or internships they might offer to young minds like yours. These connections are particularly feasible as they won't disrupt your MDCAT journey and can provide valuable insights and mentorship.
2. Local NGOs
Many NGOs are constantly looking for young volunteers to help with their various awareness programs and social work initiatives. You can check their latest openings by visiting their websites or social media pages. Some examples include the Edhi Foundation, Social Services, TCF, and many others. Volunteering with NGOs enriches your experience and allows you to give back to the community.
3. Internships Offered by Educational Institutes
Numerous schools and universities offer special activities and programs for young students to interact and learn various skills. Participating in these can earn you certificates and invaluable experience. Institutes like NUST, LUMS Summer School, and Model United Nations (MUNs) are great places to start with. These programs often provide a structured environment where you can grow and learn without sacrificing your study time.
4. MedAngle Premed Presidents Program
The Premed Presidents Program is an excellent way to enhance your leadership skills by guiding students on their MDCAT journey. The program includes presidents ranging from fresh MDCAT aspirants to medical students from all provinces of Pakistan. You can join this program by visiting MedAngle’s website or contacting one of their officials. Since this program is mostly remote, you can balance your MDCAT preparation with your leadership responsibilities.
5. Launch Your Activity
If you can't find an internship that suits you, why not start your project? This could be anything from a blog or YouTube channel to an online business you’ve always dreamed of launching. While internships from established programs are beneficial, starting your initiative allows you to pursue your passions and develop entrepreneurial skills. Plus, it can be a unique addition to your resume.
6. Start a Club
If you’re enrolled in an institution, consider getting an official permit from the management to start your club. These clubs can reflect your interests and help you build a community of like-minded individuals. Examples include a book club, anime club, board games club, chess club, etc. Starting a club showcases your leadership skills and enriches your school experience.
Internships and extracurricular activities can make your university applications stand out. They provide golden opportunities to showcase your skills, dedication, and what you can offer to society. While finding internships may seem daunting, it’s often just a matter of awareness and good research. Always check if an internship is paid or unpaid. While paid internships might seem expensive, they can be incredibly beneficial in the long run.
Balancing your studies with these enriching experiences, not only enhances your resume but also keeps you refreshed and motivated. Remember, one search may lead you to your most wanted internship. It's never too late to start working on it.
Edited by: Hafsa Tariq, MedAngle Premed President
Author:
Ahmed Ali Hashmi, MedAngle Premed President
