When you’re considering what to do as a pre-med student during spring break, don’t rule out an internship or study abroad experience that will both further your studies and give you an adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come. With a wide range of alternative spring break programs for pre-med students available, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and interests.
For example, an internship abroad with International Medical Aid (IMA) will not only bring you to Africa or South America. It will also give you hands-on experience in your field and insight into local healthcare issues you can apply globally, while letting you experience another country and culture safely and responsibly.
Make the most of your spring break by making a difference doing something you’re passionate about, and gain skills you’ll need to continue having a positive impact back home!
8 ways to make the most of spring break as a pre-med student
Boost your pre-med journey with an impactful internship abroad.
Support your pre-med education during spring break and stand out from your peers. There are many ways you can make the most of your time off!
1. Intern abroad with International Medical Aid
There are many reasons you should intern while studying abroad. Learning by doing is one of the best ways to gain experience in your field, especially medicine! It can also make all the difference when applying to postgraduate schools, residencies, and hospital jobs. Completing a pre-med placement demonstrates adaptability, intercultural competency, leadership, and more.
Programs like those offered by International Medical Aid (IMA) give you the confidence and skills you need to take advantage of any opportunities that come your way.
2. Study for the MCAT
If you need to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), what better way to do so than by getting away from your usual routine! Join a program abroad that offers hands-on experience and time to study. You’ll return home feeling ready to take on the next step of your medical career!
3. Practice a language
Knowing another language is a highly desirable skill today and increasingly necessary for medical professionals. When thinking about how to make the most of spring break, learning a new language could be a great option. Maximize your language learning by picking an international program that immerses you in a new culture where you’ll be forced to practice!
Immerse yourself in a new culture and enhance your medical perspective.
4. Discover a new culture
Spring break doesn’t have to be about beaches, tans, and piña coladas. Discover more about yourself and the world around you by exploring an alternative spring break tailored for pre-med students! Exploring a new culture is hugely rewarding, especially if you’re interested in history, architecture, people, stories, rituals, and traditions—and really, who isn’t? Plus, seeing the world from a different perspective is an essential skill for healthcare providers, as it helps you better serve your patients in the future.
5. Gain hands-on experience
As a pre-med student, you may not yet have had the opportunity to practice what you’ve been learning about, or seen doctors and nurses in action. Going abroad to participate in a pre-med spring break program could be your chance to gain valuable technical skills and see what patient consultation, diagnosis, and treatment look like. You may also encounter cases you otherwise wouldn't, since healthcare looks very different around the world.
6. Shadow medical professionals
One of the biggest advantages to participating in pre-med programs abroad, particularly IMA's internships in global healthcare, is the ability to shadow experienced medical professionals. You will have the chance to ask them questions, observe their work, and gain valuable insight into what it’s like to be in their line of work. You’ll come away with a better understanding of what you’re working towards, and if it’s something you want to continue.
7. Volunteer abroad
If self-advancement isn’t at the top of your list for spring break, perhaps giving back to communities around the world is. Many pre-med study abroad programs include a volunteering component, where you give your time to assist free or low-cost healthcare centers that serve the local community. You’ll be using your skills to help others, which is likely why you’re a pre-med student in the first place! These are only a few benefits to volunteering while studying abroad.
8. Make long-lasting memories
Make unforgettable memories and inspire your future with an international experience.
Spend your spring break meeting people from around the world, experiencing new locations and sights you’ve only seen on Instagram, and creating memories that will inspire you for years to come. After a pre-med spring break program, you may just want to explore other study abroad and international travel options!
GoAbroad has been connecting travelers with meaningful programs abroad since 1997, with thousands of verified reviews from past participants to help you compare your options confidently.
3 favorite pre-med spring break programs
1. IMA Physician Assistant/Pre-PA Internships Abroad
Discover how to best spend spring break as a pre-med student with IMA. Founded by Johns Hopkins University, IMA provides urgently needed healthcare assistance to communities in East Africa and South America. From nursing and dentistry to mental health and physical therapy, this program offers internships in a wide range of disciplines. You’ll fully immerse yourself in an international healthcare setting, be mentored by experienced healthcare professionals, and gain hands-on experience tailored to your skills and objectives.
With IMA, you’ll have 24/7 support and the reassurance that you’re traveling responsibly and sustainably. Plus, you’ll benefit from orientations and a post-program debriefing, an important part of any internship or travel experience!
- Location: East Africa (Kenya) or South America (Peru)
- Read International Medical Aid reviews
2. Medical Shadowing in Greece
Shadow medical professionals in Greece and explore diverse specialties.
If you’re looking to explore a variety of specialties, medical shadowing in Greece would be very beneficial! You’ll see patients in clinics, laboratories, and diagnostic departments, shadowing doctors and learning from your observations and experiences. This affordable program focuses on value-driven learning and includes fully furnished shared accommodation. In your free time, explore the ancient and influential city of Athens, or take advantage of the frequent ferries to island hop around the Greek archipelago!
- Location: Greece (Athens)
- Read Cerca Trova reviews
3. Clinical Internship for Medical Students
This clinical internship program offers another way to explore the land of Hippocrates, a Greek physician who lived during Greece’s classical period and is often called the "Father of Medicine." Learn about Greek history and tradition while also having access to cutting-edge medical equipment and first-rate, modern facilities.
With the 40+ hours of observation each week and the extensive learning you’ll get out of this program, you’ll be making yourself a top candidate for a residency program. It boosts your medical school application while helping you build career-ready skills. Be prepared to learn a bit of the Greek language, try some delicious local food, and experience the Mediterranean lifestyle!
- Location: Greece (Athens)
- Read Philotimo Med Abroad reviews
Have a productive spring break as a pre-med student!
Level up your skills and broaden your horizons with a pre-med spring break program abroad.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Greece or leveling up your medical skills in Kenya, spring break pre-med programs abroad will help you on your path to becoming a healthcare professional. Taking the road less traveled will set you apart from others in your class and contribute to your future success.
You'll not only add to your resume, but also expand your global network, learn about international healthcare issues and policies, and offer your time and energy to help those in need. By participating in a pre-med program abroad, you’ll also be increasing your intercultural communication and other skills, which are highly valued in today’s workplaces. You never know where a pre-med spring break program will take you!
Look for the Perfect Study Abroad Program Now
Explore hundreds of meaningful study abroad programs with verified providers worldwide. Join thousands of students taking their studies abroad!
Julie Ball
Field Marketing and Operations Specialist at AFS-USA, GoAbroad Writers Academy Member
Julie fell in love with traveling in Costa Rica which led to years of volunteering, teaching, and studying on 5 continents. As a former guide for Rustic Pathways, Julie has experience leading student programs around the world, and enjoys the educational aspects of travel. Working at AFS-USA, an intercultural student exchange organization, continues to inspire her. When she’s not on the road, Julie enjoys running, biking, reading, and of course, writing!
View Full Profile
