Join Dr. Renee Marinelli as she takes you through what medical school admissions committees look for when evaluating an applicant’s extracurricular activities. Skip the video – Show me the jobs!!
Gain Extracurricular Hours, Curated for Pre-Med Students
In the competitive field of medical school admissions, a well-rounded application is key. We have curated a one-stop-shop for extracurricular activities that will make you a standout medical school applicant. With everything in one place, you can easily showcase your commitment, compassion, and capabilities.
We spoke to countless students, internship coordinators, partner managers, medical school deans, and admissions advisors to gather the best opportunities. Whether you need to fulfill your extracurricular hours or enhance your application, we’ve got you covered.
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High School Opportunities:
Forge your path from high school to college with a variety of extracurricular activities. Lead, volunteer, research, gain clinical experience, and explore beyond academics. These experiences enrich your education, foster growth, and set the stage for future success in medicine or any field. Explore opportunities below:
What They Do:
- • Volunteer with Red Cross Youth National Program and assist with health education, community outreach, and “Sound the Alarm” programming.
- • Volunteer at Red Cross blood drives for hands-on medical experience.
- • Take Red Cross CPR, first aid, and lifeguarding courses.
- • Start a Red Cross chapter at your local high school.
What They Do:Â
Mobilizes volunteers for community service, emphasizing public health initiatives alongside education, disaster response, and environmental stewardship efforts.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • AmeriCorps State and National – Earn money for college, gain leadership experience, and boost your resume. Projects are available in many fields and service settings to help you find the right fit.
- • Public Health AmeriCorps – Address the public health needs of our nation by advancing more equitable health outcomes for underserved communities, and gain onsite experience for future careers in public health.
- • Volunteer – Your community needs you! Unite with other volunteers and strengthen communities through service. Thousands of volunteer opportunities are available wherever you are, whether you have an hour, a day, or more.
What They Do:Â
The American Heart Association is dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of death worldwide, through funding research, advocating for public health policies, and providing educational resources to promote heart-healthy lifestyles. They strive to improve cardiovascular health for all individuals, emphasizing prevention, treatment, and support for those affected by these conditions.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Join organized walks, runs, or other events held by the American Heart Association. You can help with event logistics, registration, or outreach to raise awareness about heart health.
- • Plan activities such as bake sales, sports tournaments, or themed events to raise money for the American Heart Association. Get your classmates involved to make a bigger impact.Â
- • Work with your school or local government to promote policies that support heart health, such as providing healthier food options in cafeterias, implementing physical education programs, or advocating for smoke-free environments.Â
- • Share information about heart disease prevention, healthy living tips, and the American Heart Association’s initiatives on social media platforms. Encourage your friends and followers to donate or participate in fundraisers.
What They Do:Â
Habitat for Humanity’s youth programs empower high school students to address the affordable housing crisis by volunteering in their communities, starting a local chapter, fundraising, and advocating for safe, decent, and affordable housing for all. Through hands-on experience, students learn valuable skills, build homes, and make a lasting impact on families in need.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity for community service and construction experience.
- • Start a chapter at your high school to build homes and support awareness-raisingevents.
- • Become involved in the strengthening of your own neighborhoods and communities.
- • Understand the needs of others, particularly concerning poor living conditions versus safe, affordable housing.
What They Do:Â
The High School Alliance of Future Physicians (HSAFP) connects high school students all over the country with the resources and support they need to pursue a career in medicine. Through our nationwide network of club chapters, students learn about healthcare, receive college application support, and gain hands-on medical experience — all for free.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Start a chapter, or participate in local chapter activities such as medical workshops, guest speaker events, and community health outreach programs.
- • Join online forums and discussion groups to connect with other aspiring physicians, share resources, and exchange advice.
- • Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare organizations to gain firsthand experience in the medical field and contribute to patient care.
- • Take advantage of mentorship opportunities offered by the High School Alliance of Future Physicians to receive guidance from medical professionals and navigate your path towards a career in medicine.
What They Do:Â
HOSA, or Health Occupations Students of America, engages high school students in healthcare education and career development through a variety of youth programs. These programs offer opportunities for skill-building, leadership development, and networking within the healthcare industry, empowering students to pursue their passions and excel in future healthcare professions.
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How You Can Get Involved:
• HOSA-Future Health Professionals: This is the main program for high school students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. It offers opportunities for skill development, leadership training, competitions, and networking with professionals in the healthcare industry.
• HOSA Leadership Development Program: This program focuses on developing leadership skills among high school students through workshops, conferences, and community service projects.
• HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC): Held annually, the ILC brings together HOSA members from across the globe for competitions, workshops, and networking opportunities.
What They Do:
The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) recognizes and supports high-achieving high school students by providing scholarships, leadership programs, and networking opportunities. For pre-med students, NSHSS offers resources and guidance to help them prepare for medical careers, including access to internships, college fairs, and exclusive events with healthcare professionals.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Participate in NSHSS-sponsored events and conferences to network with other high-achieving students, attend workshops, and gain valuable insights into various academic and career paths.
• Take advantage of NSHSS scholarship opportunities to help fund your college education and pursue your academic goals.
• Engage in community service projects and leadership activities through NSHSS chapters or affiliated organizations to make a positive impact in your community and develop your leadership skills.
• Explore NSHSS resources and mentorship programs to receive guidance, support, and advice from experienced professionals and scholars in your areas of interest.
What They Do:Â
MedSchoolCoach’s virtual shadowing program offers aspiring medical students the opportunity to observe and learn from experienced physicians in various specialties, providing valuable insight into the medical profession from the comfort of their own homes. Through interactive sessions and real-life case studies, participants gain firsthand knowledge and exposure to clinical practice, enhancing their understanding and readiness for medical school.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Participate in online shadowing programs.
- • Gain insights into the medical profession and patient care.
- • Access healthcare-focused placements for research and public health initiatives.
- • Stand out on your medical school application with unique experiences.
What They Do:Â
VolunteerMatch connects students with nonprofit organizations to help them find volunteer opportunities that match their interests and skills.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Search through VolunteerMatch’s database to find volunteer positions related to healthcare, such as assisting at hospitals, clinics, or health education programs.
- • Find opportunities aligned with your interests and schedule, apply directly through VolunteerMatch’s platform, making it easy to connect with organizations seeking volunteers.
- • Gain valuable hands-on experience in healthcare settings, enhancing your resumes and preparing you for future medical studies and careers.
- • Volunteer with diverse organizations while alongside healthcare professionals. Expand your network, learn from experienced practitioners, and gain insights into different areas of the healthcare field.
Pre-Med Opportunities:
Forge your journey from undergraduate school to medical school with a robust array of pre-med focused extracurricular activities. Lead, volunteer, conduct research, gain clinical experience, and explore beyond academics. These experiences not only enrich your education but also demonstrate your commitment to medicine, fostering personal and professional growth essential for success in the medical field. Explore opportunities below:
What They Do:
The Council for Global Health Scholars seeks Presidential Interns. This program will be an unprecedented opportunity to develop your career by launching one of the Founding on-campus CGHS Chapters.
What They Do:Â
The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) provides a range of resources and support for undergraduate students aspiring to pursue careers in medicine, including guidance on the medical school application process, access to research and internship opportunities, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion in medical education. Through initiatives like the MCAT exam, pre-medical advising resources, and pipeline programs, AAMC empowers undergraduate students to navigate the path to medical school and succeed in their future careers as healthcare professionals..
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Utilize AAMC’s resources for pre-medical students, including the MCAT Official Prep Hub, to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and strengthen your medical school application.
- • Participate in AAMC’s pre-medical conferences, workshops, and webinars to gain insights into the medical school admissions process, connect with admissions officers, and network with peers.
- • Explore AAMC’s research and internship opportunities, such as the Summer Undergraduate Research Programs (SURP), to gain hands-on experience in medical research and enhance your curriculum vitae.
- • Engage in AAMC’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, such as the Underrepresented in Medicine (URiM) Student Outreach Toolkit, to support underrepresented minority students and promote diversity in medical education and healthcare.
What They Do:Â
The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is a professional organization that provides education, certification, and resources for medical coding and billing professionals.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Seek out internships at hospitals, clinics, or research institutions to gain hands-on experience in the medical field.
- • Get involved in healthcare-related volunteer opportunities such as assisting at clinics, nursing homes, or community health fairs.
- • Shadow physicians or other healthcare professionals to observe clinical practice and gain insight into various medical specialties.
- • Participate in research projects at your university or affiliated institutions to develop critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to medicine.
What They Do:Â
Advanced eClinical Training provides undergraduate students with comprehensive training in clinical research methodologies and eClinical technologies, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving field of clinical research. Through hands-on workshops, online courses, and industry partnerships, students gain practical experience and theoretical knowledge, preparing them for successful careers in clinical research and related fields.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Offer assistance in hospitals, clinics, or care facilities to gain exposure to patient care and healthcare environments.
- • Engage in medical research projects at universities or hospitals to develop analytical skills and contribute to scientific advancements.
- • Shadow experienced doctors which can provide insight into medical practice, patient interactions, and various specialties.
- • Participate in health education programs, volunteer at health fairs, or initiate projects addressing community health needs to promote wellness and preventive care.
What They Do:Â
The American Red Cross offers undergraduate students opportunities to volunteer in their local communities, providing valuable experience in disaster response, blood donation drives, and humanitarian aid efforts. Additionally, students can initiate Red Cross chapters on their campuses, fostering leadership skills and community engagement while promoting the organization’s mission of alleviating human suffering in times of crisis.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Volunteer with local American Red Cross chapters to support disaster relief efforts, blood drives, health and safety education, and community outreach programs.
- • Join or start a Red Cross Club on campus to organize fundraising events, blood donation campaigns, disaster preparedness workshops, and other initiatives to engage fellow students in humanitarian activities.
- • Participate in Red Cross training programs, such as CPR certification courses, disaster response training, and leadership development workshops, to gain valuable skills and certifications while contributing to the organization’s mission
- • Explore internship and employment opportunities with the American Red Cross to further develop professional skills, gain practical experience in nonprofit management, and make a meaningful impact on communities in need.
What They Do:Â
Mobilizes volunteers for community service, emphasizing public health initiatives alongside education, disaster response, and environmental stewardship efforts.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Join AmeriCorps as a full-time member during or after college to serve in national or community service programs, addressing critical needs such as education, public health, disaster response, and environmental conservation.
- • Participate in AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) to work on capacity-building projects with nonprofit organizations and government agencies, helping to alleviate poverty and empower communities.
- • Explore AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) for a team-based service experience, where undergraduate students can work on various projects across the country in areas like disaster relief, infrastructure improvement, and environmental stewardship.
- • Engage in AmeriCorps State and National programs, which provide opportunities for college students to serve part-time or during breaks in areas like tutoring, mentoring, and community development, while earning education awards or stipends to support their educational goals.
What They Do:Â
AMSA empowers medical students to enhance their CV through leadership training, professional development opportunities, and a platform to advocate for policy change. We emphasize active involvement in health care issues, equity, and social justice, developing generations of compassionate future physicians.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Launch an AMSA Chapter: Lead the establishment of an AMSA chapter, joining a network of future medical influencers.
- • Serve as a Chapter Officer: Embrace leadership roles to prepare for a future in medical leadership and influence.
- • Engage in Exclusive Experiences: Participate in advocacy, simulation competitions, and special committees beyond the medical school curriculum.
- • Network and Build Your Community: Connect with mentors, peers, and a vibrant community through events, fairs, and the annual convention.
What They Do:Â
The American Heart Association is dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, the leading causes of death worldwide, through funding research, advocating for public health policies, and providing educational resources to promote heart-healthy lifestyles. They strive to improve cardiovascular health for all individuals, emphasizing prevention, treatment, and support for those affected by these conditions.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Join organized walks, runs, or other events held by the American Heart Association. You can help with event logistics, registration, or outreach to raise awareness about heart health.
- • Plan activities such as bake sales, sports tournaments, or themed events to raise money for the American Heart Association. Get your classmates involved to make a bigger impact.Â
- • Work with your school or local government to promote policies that support heart health, such as providing healthier food options in cafeterias, implementing physical education programs, or advocating for smoke-free environments.Â
- • Share information about heart disease prevention, healthy living tips, and the American Heart Association’s initiatives on social media platforms. Encourage your friends and followers to donate or participate in fundraisers.
What They Do:
AMWA is the oldest multispecialty organization dedicated to advancing women in medicine and improving women’s health. It provides a platform for women physicians, residents, medical students, and health care professionals to advocate for equity and excellence in healthcare.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Become a member of AMWA to access resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs.
- • Participate in AMWA’s initiatives focused on leadership, advocacy, and education related to women’s health issues.
- • Engage in community service projects and health advocacy campaigns.
- • Attend AMWA conferences and events for professional development and to connect with like-minded individuals dedicated to advancing women in medicine.
What They Do:
The Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association (APAMSA) is a national organization that brings together medical students committed to addressing the unique health challenges of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. APAMSA promotes education, advocacy, and service to empower future physicians to advance health equity and cultural competency in healthcare.
How You Can Get Involved:
- • Join a Local Chapter – Participate in events and initiatives focused on improving healthcare outcomes for AANHPI populations and fostering cultural awareness.
- • Attend Conferences and Advocacy Campaigns – Gain insights on health disparities, leadership development, and advocacy through APAMSA’s conferences while supporting initiatives like hepatitis B awareness, mental health education, and addressing language barriers in healthcare.
- • Collaborate on Research Projects – Contribute to studies aimed at addressing health disparities and advancing evidence-based solutions in underserved communities.
- • Volunteer in Community Outreach – Join health fairs, screenings, and workshops to directly impact public health and gain hands-on experience in patient care.
What They Do:
Habitat for Humanity engages undergraduate students in addressing the affordable housing crisis by providing opportunities to volunteer, fundraise, and advocate for safe and decent housing for all. Through hands-on construction projects, campus chapters, and advocacy campaigns, undergraduates contribute to building stronger communities while gaining practical skills and making a meaningful impact on the lives of families in need.
How You Can Get Involved:
- • Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity for community service and construction experience.
- • Organize health workshops for Habitat homeowners, offering medical education.
- • Join Habitat’s Global Village program for international builds, providing medical assistance.
- • Partner with local healthcare organizations for outreach to Habitat communities.
What They Do:Â
HOSA, or Health Occupations Students of America, engages undergraduate pre-med students in healthcare education and career development through a variety of specialized programs. These initiatives offer opportunities for advanced skill-building, leadership development, and networking within the healthcare industry, empowering students to pursue their passions and excel in future medical professions.
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How You Can Get Involved:
• Start or Join a Local Chapter – Many colleges and universities have HOSA chapters that students can join. These chapters offer meetings, events, and activities that support healthcare education and career development.
• Participate in Competitions: HOSA hosts various competitions at regional, state, and national levels. These competitions allow students to showcase their skills in medical knowledge, clinical procedures, and leadership abilities.
• Attend Conferences and Workshops – HOSA organizes conferences and workshops that provide educational sessions, keynote speeches, and networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and peers.
• Engage in Community Service – HOSA members can participate in community service projects related to healthcare. These projects offer hands-on experience and a chance to make a positive impact in the community while building relevant skills.
What They Do:Â
MedCerts offers online healthcare training and certification programs to help individuals launch or advance their careers in the medical field. Through flexible, self-paced courses and comprehensive support, MedCerts empowers students to gain the skills and credentials needed for success in healthcare professions.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Engage with MedCerts by enrolling in their online healthcare training and certification programs, gaining valuable skills and credentials for their future careers in the medical field.
- • Attend virtual events and webinars hosted by MedCerts to learn more about healthcare career pathways, industry trends, and professional development opportunities.
- • Become part of MedCerts’ online community, where they can connect with fellow learners, share experiences, and seek support and advice from instructors and peers.
- • Get involved with an internship or job placement after completing your MedCerts programs, providing valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities in the healthcare industry.
What They Do:Â
Medical Brigades provide pre-med students with the opportunity to gain experience in a medical clinic setting while making a tangible impact in global health.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Join or Start a Chapter – Become a member of an existing chapter or create a new one at your university.
- • Participate in Brigades – Travel with a brigade to provide medical care and health education in underserved communities.
- • Fundraising and Awareness Campaigns – Organize events and campaigns to support brigade activities and promote global health issues.
- • Volunteer and Leadership Roles – Volunteer for executive board positions or lead brigade teams to gain experience in project management and global health.
What They Do:Â
The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) mobilizes volunteers to support public health efforts during emergencies, assisting with medical and non-medical roles to strengthen community resilience and response capabilities.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Join your local Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) chapter via regional health departments or the MRC website for volunteer opportunities.
- • Get involved in training for emergency response skills like first aid, disaster preparedness, and crisis counseling, allowing premed students to enhance their medical readiness.
- • Contribute to MRC’s community health initiatives, such as vaccination drives and health education campaigns, gaining experience in public health outreach.
- • Volunteer with MRC to provide medical assistance, support shelters, distribute supplies, or aid in logistical tasks, bolstering community resilience.
What They Do:Â
The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certifies pre-med students as EMTs, providing hands-on emergency care experience. This certification enhances medical skills, knowledge, and medical school applications by demonstrating commitment to healthcare and patient care.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • EMT Certification – Complete an EMT training program and obtain certification through the NREMT to gain practical experience in emergency medical services.
- • Volunteer as an EMT – Use your EMT certification to volunteer with local emergency services, providing real-world emergency care experience.
- • Participate in Recertification – Stay active by participating in recertification courses and continuing education to maintain your EMT credentials.
- • Join Campus EMS Organizations – Become involved in campus-based emergency medical services or response teams, often affiliated with NREMT standards.
What They Do:Â
ProScribe offers undergraduate pre-med students the opportunity to work as medical scribes, gaining valuable clinical experience and exposure to healthcare settings. This hands-on role enhances their understanding of medical terminology, patient care, and the workflow of healthcare professionals, strengthening their medical school applications.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Apply for Scribe Positions – Submit an application to become a medical scribe and gain firsthand experience in clinical settings.
- • Attend Training Programs – Participate in ProScribe’s training programs to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for scribing.
- • Shadow Experienced Scribes – Shadow current medical scribes to learn more about the role and get practical insights into daily responsibilities.
- • Network with Healthcare Professionals – Use the opportunity to connect with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, building a network for future career opportunities.
What They Do:Â
The US National Science Foundation provides grants and resources to support medical research initiatives, fostering innovation and advancing scientific knowledge to benefit healthcare and medical practice.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Seek NSF-funded virtual healthcare research internships.
- • Contribute to NSF-backed scientific writing and public health endeavors.
- • Enhance medical school applications with NSF-supported research experiences.
- • Explore global healthcare research opportunities through NSF-funded initiatives.
What They Do:Â
MedSchoolCoach’s virtual shadowing program offers aspiring medical students the opportunity to observe and learn from experienced physicians in various specialties, providing valuable insight into the medical profession from the comfort of their own homes. Through interactive sessions and real-life case studies, participants gain firsthand knowledge and exposure to clinical practice, enhancing their understanding and readiness for medical school.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Participate in online shadowing programs.
- • Gain insights into the medical profession and patient care.
- • Access healthcare-focused placements for research and public health initiatives.
- • Stand out on your medical school application with unique experiences.
What They Do:Â
Virtual Internships connects students with global employers for high-impact remote work programs in healthcare, offering opportunities for research, scientific writing, and public health initiatives.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Apply for virtual internships in healthcare-focused areas.
- • Engage in scientific writing and public health projects.
- • Gain experience that stands out on medical school applications.
- • Explore diverse research opportunities across the globe.
What They Do:Â
VolunteerMatch connects students with nonprofit organizations to help them find volunteer opportunities that match their interests and skills.
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How You Can Get Involved:
- • Search through VolunteerMatch’s database to find volunteer positions related to healthcare, such as assisting at hospitals, clinics, or health education programs.
- • Find opportunities aligned with your interests and schedule, apply directly through VolunteerMatch’s platform, making it easy to connect with organizations seeking volunteers.
- • Gain valuable hands-on experience in healthcare settings, enhancing your resumes and preparing you for future medical studies and careers.
- • Volunteer with diverse organizations while alongside healthcare professionals. Expand your network, learn from experienced practitioners, and gain insights into different areas of the healthcare field.
Maximize Your Application
At MedSchoolCoach, we understand that every applicant is unique. Our expert advisors work with you to develop a personalized extracurricular strategy that aligns with your interests and career goals. We help you identify activities that will make your application shine and ensure that your involvement is both meaningful and impactful.