Clinical Research: How & Why?
Clinical research is an important of the medical field, helping to advance knowledge about diseases, treatments, and the human body. Regardless, many pre-med students ignore the benefits and standout factor that clinical research provides in their application, instead partaking in less medically related research. However, participation in clinical research can be a valuable addition to a medical school application and can set an applicant apart from other candidates. This research can be used to demonstrate an interest in a specific area of medicine, gain leadership experience, and demonstrate a dedication to the field.
Before we dive deep into the advantages of clinical research, it is important to discuss how an undergraduate can partake in it. One way to participate in clinical research is to simply seek out research positions at hospitals, clinics, or academic institutions. These positions can be competitive, so it is important to have a strong resume and cover letter, as well as excellent grades and test scores. It can also be helpful to network with faculty members or professionals in the field and to seek out opportunities to volunteer or shadow in research settings. The AAMC also has a list of summer programs that it shares on its website every year. This list contains several different research opportunities for pre-medical students in several different medical fields at schools, hospitals, and research centers across the United States. Lastly, more accomplished peers are a great resource for advice and guidance on where to get certain opportunities.
But why is it even worth it to land a clinical research position? Firstly, by participating in research in a specific area of medicine, applicants can demonstrate a genuine interest in that field and a desire to learn more about it. This can be especially appealing to medical schools focused on that particular area of study. For example, having clinical research done in a field like cardiology, with other activities pointing towards your interest in cardiology, can make for a impactful and cohesive story. Many research positions also involve leading a team or managing a project. Not only does this convey your leadership skills to admissions officers, but it will also come in handy as a physician. In fact, the Trinity School of Medicine supports this, explaining how “pre-med students who engage in research projects learn to think critically and develop strong problem-solving skills. They must analyze data, interpret results, and adapt to changing circumstances, all of which are essential qualities for a successful medical career.” Lastly, medical schools are looking for applicants who are passionate about the field and committed to making a difference. By participating in clinical research, applicants can show that they are willing to put in the extra effort to contribute to the advancement of medicine.
As discussed, clinical research is a key aspect of the medical field and a valuable addition to a medical school application. Participation in clinical research can provide valuable experience and skills, demonstrate a commitment to the field, and set an applicant apart from other candidates. By seeking out research positions, networking, and volunteering or shadowing in research settings, applicants can increase their chances of landing a research position and strengthen their medical school application.
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Kowarski, Ilana. “What Type of Research Impresses Medical Schools?” US News & World Report, U.S. News & World Report, 2022, www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-medical-schools/articles/what-type-of-research-helps-you-get-into-medical-school. Accessed 8 Jan. 2023.
BeMo Academic Consulting Inc. “Clinical Research Opportunities for Premedical Students in 2023.” BeMo®, BeMo Academic Consulting Inc., 11 May 2022, bemoacademicconsulting.com/blog/clinical-research-premed. Accessed 8 Jan. 2023.
“How Research Experience Can Strengthen Your Medical School Application.” American Medical Association, 10 Mar. 2020, www.ama-assn.org/medical-students/preparing-medical-school/how-research-experience-can-strengthen-your-medical. Accessed 8 Jan. 2023.
Inspira Advantage. “Research for Medical School Admissions: What Do You Need to Know?” Inspiraadvantage.com, Inspira Advantage, 3 Nov. 2022, www.inspiraadvantage.com/blog/research-for-medical-school. Accessed 8 Jan. 2023.
Trinity. “Benefits of Clinical Research for Pre-Med Students – Trinity School of Medicine.” Trinityschoolofmedicine.org, 3 Nov. 2023, trinityschoolofmedicine.org/blog/benefits-of-clinical-research-for-pre-med- Accessed 4 Sept. 2024.
