Q: Is it a good idea to list extracurricular activities, interests and achievements down on medical school applications that have nothing to do with science or medicine or patient care but that are still unique and impressive? Or do medical schools really only care about activities related to science and medicine and patient care. Will being really interested in something else as well look like I'm not going to be totally devoted to a career as a physician?
A: Don't risk your GPA by volunteering too much. They want to know about your character, your motives for going into medicine, and how smart you are. If you have time to volunteer at a free health clinic, for example, that would show you interest. You don't really learn much, because it is way over your head, and the docs don't usually have time to sit down and take you through a disease in detail. Some outside interest is good for YOU- a break from the books. Sailing, skiing, whatever is a good release. You would be amazed at the number of Medical Students and PhD students who spend their Summer being guides on whitewater raft trips.