Medical schools also look for evidence of such other traits as leadership,social maturity, purpose, motivation, initiative, curiosity, perseverance, and breadth of interests. Anyone who is considering a career as a physician must be able to develop the ability to relate to people effectively. Because of the demanding nature of both the training for and the practice of medicine, motivation is perhaps the most salient non-intellectual trait sought by most admissions committees. It is assumed that a qualified applicant to medical school will have not only a general understanding of the profession but also a demonstrated interest in and knowledge of what medicine is about. But excellent grades do not insure admission.
Personal qualities play an important role.
These too can be developed and a reputation for high quality can be established. Become involved in a constructive, effective way in activities which will develop and exhibit good qualities. Then, when professional schools seek information about you, people will know you and be able to describe specific situations in which you displayed desirable characteristics. These activities may be academic or extra-curricular, or they may involve jobs. Although it is not required that premed students have health-related work experience, it can certainly be helpful.