How to Write Stronger Activity Descriptions for Your Med School Application

Your application to medical school is more than just a checklist of experiences, it’s a story about your journey to medicine. Admissions committees aren’t just looking for what you did; they want to understand how your experiences shaped you, what you learned, and how you’ll bring those lessons into your future as a student and a physician.

One of the most overlooked areas of the AMCAS application is the Work & Activities section. Many applicants simply list their roles and responsibilities, but a well-crafted description can elevate your application above the crowd.

The Right Approach to Activity Descriptions

Instead of just stating what you did, focus on why it mattered. Here are some ways to strengthen your descriptions:

1. Move Beyond the Basics

Instead of: Shadowed a doctor for 20 hours. Try this: Observed the physician-patient relationship firsthand and saw how compassionate communication impacts care.

Why? This description highlights your insight and reflection, not just the hours you logged.

2. Show What You Learned

Instead of: Learned the basics of anatomy. Try this: Gained a deeper understanding of how anatomical knowledge translates to patient care, strengthening my clinical reasoning skills.

Why? Med schools value critical thinking and your ability to apply knowledge, not just memorize facts.

3. Explain the Impact

Instead of: Listed my research abstract. Try this: Explored how research can directly influence patient outcomes and contribute to advancements in treatment.

Why? Admissions committees want to see how your research connects to real-world medicine and your future goals.

4. Highlight the Human Side of Healthcare

Instead of: Volunteered at a community health clinic. Try this: Saw firsthand how healthcare is both a scientific and deeply human experience, reinforcing my desire to serve underserved populations.

Why? Medicine is about people, not just science. Show that you understand the human element of healthcare.

How GradMissions Can Help

Writing compelling activity descriptions is an art, and at GradMissions, we help med school applicants refine their applications so they stand out for all the right reasons. From brainstorming experiences to perfecting your wording, we’re here to help you tell your story with clarity and impact. As a former gatekeeper for a top medical school, our founder nows exactly how to help you achieve all of this and more. 

Want expert guidance on crafting a pristine application? Let’s work together to make your med school dreams a reality! Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call today.