To be considered valuable, leadership experience doesn’t necessarily have to be directly related to medicine. It should, however, be thoughtful and deliberate. Being able to manage personalities, delegate work, and work efficiently with others are proficiencies that will be critical as a physician and these are the skills that your experience should reinforce. 

There are many different ways to build leadership skills. Remember, it is not just about the experience itself or a title, but rather the skills you gain from the experience.

Some examples include:

• Starting a campus club or non profit 
• Taking a leadership role in a student organization or student government
• Serving as a peer advisor, tutor, or teaching assistant
• Serving as a leader in a community or church organization
• Having a leadership role in sports or arts performances
• Leading a research project
• Coaching kids in any setting