Clubs and volunteering
Physician (doctor): activities that show real interest in this career. Pick a career below to see other ideas.
What colleges actually look for
- Depth, not a long list. Two or three activities over several years mean more than ten short ones.
- Growing responsibility. Leading, organizing, teaching, or starting something.
- Real impact. What changed because your child was there.
No single club guarantees admission.
Read the guide: what US colleges look for →Clubs to look for at school
- HOSA – Future Health Professionals(official website)HealthA health-careers club with state and national competitions.
- Science Olympiad(official website)CompetitionTeam science contest with events like anatomy and disease detectives.
- Science fair or research projectResearchA long project shows depth. Many regional fairs feed into national ones.
- Red Cross club(official website)ServiceOrganize blood drives and first-aid training at school.
Volunteering ideas
- Hospital or clinic volunteeringMany programs start at age 16. Apply early; spots fill fast.
- Senior care home visitsRegular visits build comfort with patients and caregiving.
- Health fairs in your communityHelp at temple, gurdwara, mosque, or community health camps.
Medical schools mostly look at clinical experience during college. In high school, strong science grades and real curiosity matter most.
These count too
- A paid part-time job
- Caring for siblings or translating for parents
- Steady service at your temple, gurdwara, mosque, or community group
The Common App has its own categories for paid work and family responsibilities.
Last reviewed October 7, 2026.