Yes! (I wouldn't recommend applying after two years
because your odds are so small). Except I'd apply
after third year with the expectation of not getting
accepted. Only 8-9 people in my med class of 120 got
in after third year. While that may sound
discouraging, I would look at applying after third
year as a trial run. It forces you to write your
autobiographical essays a year early, and helps you
identify areas of your application that are lacking.
In the event you get interviews, it's a great chance
to meet the schools, exchange gossip with other
interviewees (you'd be surprised how much medical
admissions info makes its way around), and polish up
on your interviewing skills. Who knows, you might
even be accepted! But, in the event that you aren't,
you'll be far ahead of the game when you apply in earnest after fourth year.
Most schools have a limit on the times you can apply,
but it varies from school to school, so you should
check up on that. Most schools allow you to apply at
least three times; if you still have't gotten in after
that, then you probably need to do some serious
re-upgrading on your application or look to another
profession that interests you. I wouldn't be worried
that you might somehow "waste" an application attempt
by applying after third year. Med schools shouldn't
hold any bias, or penalize you when you re-apply; UBC doesn't. Still, I'd e-mail the individual schools and ask.
For doctor-shadowing programs, try calling the
volunteer office of your local hospital. Also ask
your friends and relatives whether they know any
doctors who would be willing to let you follow them
around for a day or two. Most doctors still remember
the "med school days" and may be very enthusiastic.
You're probably doing just fine in the volunteer
department as long as you're actually getting something out of the experience.
Co-op programs probably don't make you look more
favourable than not, but if you are in co-op, you get
to travel, meet tons of co-workers, and most
importantly, interview lots! Interview experience
really helps settle the butterflies, and lets you
answer questions with poise and confidence, which will
serve you well in the medical admissions interviews.
Finally, I've just finished first year med, and am
going into second year, the last year of lots of
classes before we hit the hospitals. I'm looking forward to second year. :)
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