Opinions on National Academy of Future Physicians?

Hi everyone! I recently received an invitation to join the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists. I'm curious if any of you have experiences with this organization. Did you find it helpful for your college apps or in terms of networking opportunities? Is it really worth joining?

Hey there! The National Academy of Future Physicians (NAFP), just like any organization, it has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it provides an opportunity to explore your interests in the medical field, gain a bit of exposure, and potentially make some valuable connections. Plus, participating in the Congress of Future Medical Leaders can be informative and inspire you to join the medical field.

However, when it comes to college applications, NAFP like won't carry the same weight as some other extracurricular activities. This is because the program is not highly selective and often requires payment for attending their events, which can make it more of a "pay-to-play" extracurricular than something that truly distinguishes you from other applicants. Admissions officers typically put more weight on selective programs or demonstrated achievements and leadership roles in your activities.

If you're considering joining NAFP purely to boost your college application, it might not have the impact you're hoping for. Instead, focus on pursuing extracurricular activities that highlight your unique interests, demonstrate your leadership, and showcase your commitment to the field.

For example, consider volunteering at a local hospital, participating in a research project, or joining a science club at your school. Or, you can find a list of some more well-regarded medical internships and programs on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/medical-internships-for-high-school-students/

Overall, while joining NAFP might be a good way to explore your interest in medicine, just keep in mind that it likely won't be a game-changer for your college applications. So, if that's what you're looking for, it might make more sense to pursue cheaper, more accessible options. Good luck with your decision!