“The Opportunity to Become What You Intended to Be – a Doctor”: Capitals of Medical University Volunteers

Based on survey data from medical university student volunteers and interviews with heads of volunteer centers and program coordinators, this study explores the forms of capital developed by medical students through volunteer activities using Pierre Bourdieu’s theoretical framework. The findings show that volunteering con-tributes to the comprehensive accumulation of cultural (professional values, habitus, skills), social (networks of contacts), symbolic (prestige, awards), and indirectly economic (scholarships, career prospects) capital. Significant correlations between different forms of capital were identified (r = 0,421 – 0,829, p < 0,01). Volunteering is viewed as an important resource for professional socialization, enabling students to strengthen competencies, expand social networks, and enhance their status within academic and professional communities. The results demonstrate the integrative potential of volunteering in higher medical education.