Research

[MynameisSarah78]

Hi, I am wondering if someone could help me out. I have a high GPA (3.9+), good extracurricular activities, volunteer, travel experiences etc. however, I have never done any research. I was granted an interview already at UFT, but I am still concerned that my lack of research may ultimately negatively affect me when acceptances are sent out in June. Can someone comment on how essential research is in the application process?

[deep]

I wouldn't say its essential. I know people who got in without any experience. But i would think it would be good to have an appreciation of what research means to clincal practice, as they complement each other. don't worry about it, u got an interview....more than what i can say for myself at the current time.

[JSS02]

I'm not a member of U of T meds, either as a student or adcom member, so obviously I can't give you any definite answers. However, if they invited you for an interview, they must have liked your essay and autobio sketch even though you haven't had research experience. You're the envy of people like me, who still haven't heard from them at all :) . I don't see why it could suddenly become an issue at the interview stage unless you had some hardcore researcher interview you (and even then, I think they know that research isn't a requirement). So I guess you shouldn't worry about things you can't control now, and just do your best at the interview. Good luck!

[MynameisSarah78]

Thanks guys so much for you opinion on the matter. It is helping me put my mind somewhat at ease. Good luck JSS02 on your interview!

[JSS02]

Thanks. When's your interview? It so happened that they decided to schedule mine on the same day as Queen's, so I have to get it changed...

[MynameisSarah78]

I actually had my interview a couple of weekends ago!:) I was kind of glad I got it over with the first weekend. When did you re-schedule your interview for?

[JSS02]

I'm still waiting for them to get back to me on a new interview time. I guess it will either be later on that weekend or during the next one (in April).

How did your interview go? (Send me a private message if you prefer)...

[j]

When people talk about "research" being important, are you only referring to "biomedical research"? Or do you think that any research would be looked favorably on, e.g., in unrelated areas like physics, computers, etc..

[deep]

oh no, by all means...all research. Doesn't matter what the field, whether sociology, computers, physics, anything...its all contibuting to our knowledge base. All realms of research can be incorporated in one way or another....astronomy and space biomedicine. It's all good.