The days of patients being served by a single superstar doctor are long over. Today’s medical practice increasingly is a team effort, with multiple physicians of varying specialties often consulting on treatment options for a single patient. The expertise of nurses, physician assistants, physical therapists, social workers and others also may play a role in patient care. So, if you’re planning a career in medicine, you’ll want to prove that you can be both an independent thinker and a strong team player.
The best way to do that is to actively involve yourself in a team activity before applying for medical school and, if your study schedule allows, during school. Whether you play on a sports team, volunteer for a nonprofit or community project, or leading a group effort to improve an issue at your current workplace, you’ll develop attribute that will prove beneficial when vying for a coveted spot in one of your top school choices. These attributes include:
- The ability to effectively communicate and cooperate.
- The ability to effectively coach or lead others.
- The ability to graciously accept advice and follow instructions and take constructive feedback.
- Discipline, focus and productivity.
- Time and energy management skills.
- Problem solving skills.
- The ability to quickly and effectively adapt to change.
- Individual and group responsibility.
How has being part of a team helped prepare you for medical school? Post your stories and advice on the WOLFPACC Facebook Fan Page. And to help assure you’re ready to take on all the rigors of medical study, enroll in one of our USMLE or COMLEX preparatory courses at St. Augustine, FL-based WOLFPACC. Call 904-209-3140 to learn more.
