While the following discussion is oriented to pre-med students, the advice is relevant to students applying to any of the health professions.

During college, the successful premedical student completes several important tasks, including:

• the selection of a personally challenging and appealing major
• the timely completion of all required premedical courses
• the pursuit of advanced coursework in areas of special interest
• the establishment of an ongoing relationship with an informed premedical advisor
• participation in a variety of extracurricular activities and experiences
• the mastery of both course content and academic skills
• the balancing of intellectual development and social and interpersonal growth

[source: “Medical School Admission Requirements MSAR)” AAMC]

A strong academic record as shown by:

• Mastery of the basic science requirements
• Broad and successful exposure to the humanities and social sciences
• Ability to read and understand sophisticated material in the humanities, natural and social sciences (especially important for those taking a test like the MCAT)
• Commitment to being a lifelong learner and evidence of "mature and independent scholarship" (e.g., participation in an independent study or honors program)

NOTE that AP and dual-enrollment credits in the basic science pre-requisites often will not be counted by programs as having met requirements for admission

A firm and clear motivation for the health professions as shown by:

• Activities that show care for your fellow human beings and their welfare
• Evidence that you understand the role of a DDS, MD, DO, OD, PA, RN, PT, PharmD, DVM, etc., from direct personal experience. i.e., accumulation of clinical experience hours.

Outstanding personal qualities:

• Psychological maturity
• Compassion and empathy
• Concern for helping others
• Communication skills
• Motivation and persistence
• Reliability and dependability
• Resilience and adaptability
• Character and integrity
• Self-discipline
• Judgment
• Leadership skills
• Accountability
• Intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm

Consider what type of evidence you will have for these “intangibles”

Extracurricular Activities:

Medical and professional schools are interested in well-rounded applicants, those who have shown interest in and ability to work with people.  Service to humanity is one of the highest ideals of medicine.

Get involved in internships; on-campus activities relating to health care; take on leadership positions in student or community organizations, athletic teams, or in student and dormitory government; tutor underprivileged children in the community. 

Demonstrate your leadership skills and abilities to work effectively with others on group activities.  Letters of recommendation from your activities' supervisors can be important additions to your application.