Medical school is already an incredibly overwhelming responsibility — and this doesn't even include undergraduate medical research. While some students might question its importance, this step is an important part of your education and career.

Let's explore why.

The Benefits of Undergraduate Medical Research

There a number of benefits of participating in undergraduate research. Here are just a few.

1. Undergraduate Research Helps You Determine Your Interests and Goals

When you decide to go to medical school, there are so many different paths you can take. What are you passionate about? Which subjects would you like to explore further? What kind of physician do you want to be?

Yes, you'll get a lot of exposure in your classes. But undergraduate medical research provides a unique experience that you won't get elsewhere. It allows you to dive more into the nitty-gritty and really get an idea of what that specific type of medicine is all about. This can make it a lot easier to choose your major/specialty and give you quite a bit of clarity regarding the direction you want your life to take.

2. You Get to Contribute to the Greater Good of Your Field

Medical school allows you to learn from others. How would you like people to learn from you? When you participate in research, this is the chance you get. You have the opportunity to chance the course of your field — not to mention countless lives — by participating in this expanding knowledge and making new discoveries.

You can quite literally change the future.

This is especially fulfilling if your research has to do with something you care about on a personal level, which brings us to our next point.

3. Research Balances Your Academic Life With Your Personal Life

Yes, you're still working, learning, and studying; but research has a noticeably different feel from the classroom. Because you have so many options when it comes to what you can choose to focus on, you can pick something that resonates with you personally.

During your research, you will very likely work with a team and have a mentor. These people will become colleagues and possibly even friends. Being surrounded by like-minded people and a leader you can count on will help to reaffirm why you went into medicine in the first place.

4.  It's an Excellent Addition to Your Resume

Throughout your career, it'll be evident that you went to medical school. But participating in undergraduate medical research shows that you've taken the initiative to truly understand your field. It demonstrates not only your commitment to your field but also a deep-rooted interest and loyalty to it.

This is an incredible reflection of your devotion to your field. Also taking into consideration how competitive medicine is, every step you take to go the extra mile will help you stand out from other students and professionals.

What are you considering for your undergraduate medical research? You're about to embark on an incredible part of your education and future career!