How to Make the Most of Spring Break as a Pre-Med Student

When you’re considering what to do as a pre-med student during spring break, don’t rule out an internship or study abroad experience that will both further your studies and give you an adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come. With a wide range of alternative spring break programs for pre-med students available, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and interests. For example, an internship abroad with International Medical Aid (IMA) will not only bring you to Africa or South America, it will provide hands-on experience in your field, give you insight into local healthcare issues that can be applied at a global scale, and allow you to experience another country and culture in a safe and responsible way. Make the most of your spring break by making a difference doing something you’re passionate about - and gain skills you’ll need to continue having a positive impact back home!

8 ways to make the most of spring break as a pre-med student

Boost your pre-med journey with an impactful internship abroad.

Support your pre-med education during spring break and stand out from your peers. There are many ways you can make the most out of your time off!

1. Intern abroad with International Medical Aid

Learning by doing is one of the best ways to gain experience in your field, especially medicine! An internship abroad could make all the difference when applying to postgraduate schools, residencies, and hospital jobs. Having completed an international internship, you’ll demonstrate adaptability, intercultural competency, leadership, and more. Programs like those offered by IMA will give you the confidence and skills you need to take advantage of any opportunities that come your way.

2. Study for the MCAT

If you need to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), what better way to do so than by getting away from your usual routine! Join a program abroad that will give you hands-on practical knowledge while also providing time to study. You’ll return home feeling ready to take on the next step of your medical career!

3. Practice a language

Knowing another language is a very desirable skill in today’s world and one increasingly necessary by medical professionals. When thinking about how to make the most of spring break, starting to learn a new language could be a great option. Maximize your language learning by picking an international program that immerses you in a new culture where you’ll be forced to practice!

4. Discover a new culture

Immerse yourself in a new culture and enhance your medical perspective.

Spring break doesn’t have to be about beaches, tans, and Piña Coladas - discover more about yourself and the world around you by exploring an alternative spring break tailored for pre-med students! Exploring a new culture is hugely rewarding, especially if you’re interested in history, architecture, people, stories, rituals and traditions - and really, who isn’t? Plus, seeing the world from a different perspective is an essential skill for healthcare providers, and will help you better serve your patients in the future.

5. Gain hands-on experience

As a pre-med student, you may not yet have had the opportunity to practice what you’ve been learning about, or seen doctors and nurses in action. Going abroad to participate in a pre-med spring break program could be your chance to gain valuable technical skills and see what patient consultation, diagnosis, and treatment looks like. Plus, you may come across cases that you otherwise would not have, as healthcare looks very different around the world.

6. Shadow medical professionals

One of the biggest advantages to participating in a pre-med program abroad is the ability to shadow experienced medical professionals. You will have the chance to ask them questions, observe their work, and gain valuable insight into what it’s like to be in their line of work. You’ll come away with a better understanding of what you’re working towards, and if it’s something you want to continue.

7. Volunteer abroad

If self advancement isn’t at the top of your list for spring break, perhaps giving back to communities around the world is. Many pre-med programs have a volunteer component, where you are giving your time to assist at free or low-cost healthcare centers which serve the local community. You’ll be using your skills to help others, which is likely why you’re a pre-med student in the first place!

8. Make long lasting memories

Make unforgettable memories and inspire your future with an international experience.

Spend your spring break meeting people from around the world, experiencing new locations and sights you’ve only seen on Instagram, and creating memories that will inspire you for years to come. After a pre-med spring break program, you may just want to explore other study abroad and international travel options!

3 favorite pre-med spring break programs

1. Physician Assistant/Pre-PA Internships Abroad | IMA

• Highlights: Discover how best to spend spring break as a pre-med student with IMA. Founded by Johns Hopkins University, IMA provides urgently needed healthcare assistance to communities in East Africa and South America. From nursing and dentistry to mental health and physical therapy, this program offers internships in a wide range of disciplines. You’ll be fully immersed in an international healthcare setting, be mentored by experienced healthcare professionals, and get hands-on experience tailored to your skills and objectives. With IMA, you’ll have 24/7 support and the reassurance that you’re traveling responsibly and sustainably. Plus, you’ll benefit from orientations and a post-program debriefing - an important part of any internship or travel experience!
• Location: East Africa (Kenya) or South America (Peru)
• Read International Medical Aid reviews

2. Medical Shadowing in Greece

Shadow medical professionals in Greece and explore diverse specialties.

• Highlights: If you’re looking to explore a variety of specialties that you could possibly go into, this program in Greece would be very beneficial! You’ll see patients in clinics, laboratories, and diagnostic departments, shadowing doctors and learning from your observations and experiences. This affordable program focuses on value-driven learning and includes fully furnished shared accommodation. In your free time, explore the ancient and influential city of Athens, or take advantage of the frequent ferries to island hop around the Greek archipelago!
• Location: Greece (Athens)
• Read Cerca Trova reviews

3. Clinical Internship for Medical Students

• Highlights: This clinical internship program provides another option for exploring the land of Hippocrates, a Greek physician who lived during Greece’s classical period and is often referred to as the father of medicine. Learn about Greek history and tradition while also having access to cutting edge medical equipment and first-rate, modern facilities. With the 40+ hours of observation each week and the extensive learning you’ll get out of this program, you’ll be making yourself a top candidate for a residency program by boosting your medical school application. Be prepared to learn a bit of the Greek language, try some delicious local food, and experience the Mediterranean lifestyle!
• Location: Greece (Athens)
• Read Philotimo Med Abroad reviews

Have a productive spring break as a pre-med student!

Level up your skills and broaden your horizons with a pre-med spring break program abroad.

Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Greece or leveling up your medical skills in Kenya, a spring break pre-med program will help you on your path to becoming a healthcare professional. Taking the road less traveled will set you apart from others in your class and contribute to your future success. Not only will you be adding to your resume, you’ll be expanding your global network, learning about international healthcare issues and policies, and offering up your time and energy to help those in need. By participating in a pre-med program abroad, you’ll also be increasing your intercultural communication and other skills, which are highly valued in today’s workplaces. You never know where a pre-med spring break program will take you!