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How Can I Best Prepare in High School for a Career in Neurosurgery?
Hi everyone, I'm a freshman interested in becoming a neurosurgeon in the future. I'm looking for guidance on what specific steps I should take now, like choosing certain courses, participating in extracurricular activities, or finding shadowing opportunities. Any advice or resources you can share would be greatly appreciated!
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Dr H
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Hey Redit!
First off, Doc Frick gave some great advice, focusing on solid high school courses that are perfect for laying the groundwork to become a neurosurgeon. I really like how he emphasized courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy, because they’re all so foundational to understanding the human body — which, as you know, is key to neurosurgery. Plus, AP or honors classes show colleges that you’re ready for the rigors of medical school!
But I want to dive a little deeper and add a few things you might not have thought about yet to help you stand out even more and make the journey a little clearer.
Keep Pushing Your Science and Math Skills 💡 As a future neurosurgeon, you’ll need a deep understanding of the brain, nerves, and overall human body. So in addition to the core subjects Doc mentioned, you should really focus on strengthening your math and science foundations. These fields are huge in medicine, and you'll use math and physics more than you might expect for things like neuroimaging and calculating dosages for treatments.
I know it is tough and While it’s hard to get a shadowing experience as a high school freshman, start looking into hospitals and clinics now and ask about opportunities for volunteering or job shadowing. Even though you might not be able to directly shadow a neurosurgeon right away, getting involved in healthcare settings as early as possible will give you exposure to medical environments. Plus, the earlier you can connect with people in the field, the better your chances will be later on when you need mentorship.
A good start could be volunteering in hospitals, especially in departments like neurology or physical therapy, as you’ll see patients who are recovering from neurological surgeries.
While HOSA is a great organization to get involved in, there are also a lot of science fairs, summer medical programs, and neuroscience camps that can add to your knowledge and stand out to admissions committees. The Neuro Camp Doc mentioned is a great example, but also look into specialized programs that focus on neuroscience research. Being able to show you've done some serious research in neuroscience will definitely make your application pop. Also if you're able to, reach out to local universities or research institutions and see if you can volunteer in neuroscience labs. Research is a major part of neurosurgery, and hands-on experience is invaluable. Not only does it help you get familiar with research protocols, but it also shows you’re invested in the field.
As you continue your high school journey, try to take on leadership roles (like running for student government or starting a healthcare-related club). Neurosurgeons need to be able to lead teams, make high-pressure decisions, and communicate effectively with both patients and medical staff. Show admissions committees that you can handle responsibility and lead by example — these qualities are crucial for a future neurosurgeon.
Don’t Worry About the Roadblocks Redit!
I know this can seem like a long journey, but keep in mind: you are exactly where you need to be. Don’t let doubts sneak in, especially because you’re still in your freshman year. If you stay focused, work hard, and keep pursuing every opportunity, you will absolutely get there.
College is not a race — don’t stress about having everything figured out immediately. Even if you hit some bumps along the way, the most important thing is that you’re dedicated and passionate about your goals.
Here are some helpful resources and few other paths also like research and..... to help you on your path to becoming a neurosurgeon as well.
1. Websites & Online Resources
American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS)
Their website has tons of resources about the neurosurgery field, including educational tools, career paths, and even opportunities to connect with professionals in the field.
Neurosurgery Research and Education Foundation (NREF)
A great place to find research, scholarships, and educational opportunities related to neurosurgery.
Coursera and edX - Neuroscience Courses
These online learning platforms offer free and paid courses on neuroscience, biology, anatomy, and even medical school prep. They’re a great way to dive into the subjects that will be key in your future studies.
2. Books & Study Materials
"Neurosurgery: The Essentials" by Andrew H. Kaye and Graham J. Lister
This book offers an accessible, yet thorough, introduction to the world of neurosurgery. It’s an excellent read if you’re interested in understanding what the day-to-day life of a neurosurgeon is like.
"The Brain: The Story of You" by David Eagleman
A great read for anyone interested in neuroscience. It’ll give you a deeper understanding of how the brain works, which is essential for your future career.
3. Summer Programs & Camps
Neuroscience Summer Camps
As Doc Frick mentioned, participating in camps like Neuro Camp can offer an introduction to neuroscience and provide hands-on research experience. Some universities offer summer programs that focus on neuroscience and neurobiology for high school students.
Look into programs at schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins for opportunities!
Summer Medical Programs
Some programs focus specifically on preparing students for a future in medicine, and they often include shadowing or research opportunities. Consider looking into:
National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF): Medicine
The Science and Engineering Program at MIT
Future Doctors Programs by local universities
4. Volunteering & Shadowing Opportunities
Hospital Volunteering
Reach out to hospitals in your area and ask if they have shadowing or volunteering programs, especially in departments related to neurology or physical therapy. Some hospitals also offer summer internships for high school students interested in healthcare.
Doctors Without Borders
Even though you might be too young to volunteer directly, you can still support the mission of Doctors Without Borders and get involved in fundraising and awareness initiatives. This will help you build leadership skills and demonstrate your passion for healthcare.
5. Professional Organizations for Networking
Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
If you’re interested in joining a student-driven medical association, SNMA offers mentorship, leadership opportunities, and educational programs geared toward students pursuing careers in medicine.
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA)
It is a fantastic organization for students interested in medicine, and are offering networking, competitive events, and career exploration. It’s an excellent way to gain exposure to the medical field and build leadership skills.
You can just visit HOSA and check it out furthur.
6. Research Opportunities
University Research Labs
Many universities allow high school students to get involved in research labs, especially in the field of neuroscience. Reach out to professors or lab directors and ask about internship or volunteer opportunities.
Schools like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins often have outreach programs or are open to high school students who show initiative.
Neuroscience Research Conferences
As you advance in your studies, you can attend conferences to connect with researchers in the field. The Society for Neuroscience (SfN) hosts events where students can learn about the latest research and network with professionals.
I’m confident that with the right mindset, you’re going to absolutely crush this! Keep asking questions, stay involved, and never stop pushing yourself.
Good luck, Redit! You’ve got this and I know you do! ✨🤗
Taking advanced math courses (like calculus, as you’ll use it in medical research and data analysis).
Physics — especially when it comes to neuroimaging (CT scans, MRIs, etc.).
One great suggestion to start right now is to volunteer or shadow at a local hospital or clinic. This will give you hands-on exposure to the healthcare field and help you better understand the day-to-day responsibilities of doctors, especially in neurology or neurosurgery. Many hospitals have programs where you can shadow healthcare professionals or even participate in administrative roles to get a feel for the environment. This experience will be invaluable for building your resume and confirming your interest in neurosurgery!
First off, Doc Frick gave some great advice, focusing on solid high school courses that are perfect for laying the groundwork to become a neurosurgeon. I really like how he emphasized courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy, because they’re all so foundational to understanding the human body — which, as you know, is key to neurosurgery. Plus, AP or honors classes show colleges that you’re ready for the rigors of medical school!
But I want to dive a little deeper and add a few things you might not have thought about yet to help you stand out even more and make the journey a little clearer.
Keep Pushing Your Science and Math Skills 💡 As a future neurosurgeon, you’ll need a deep understanding of the brain, nerves, and overall human body. So in addition to the core subjects Doc mentioned, you should really focus on strengthening your math and science foundations. These fields are huge in medicine, and you'll use math and physics more than you might expect for things like neuroimaging and calculating dosages for treatments.
I know it is tough and While it’s hard to get a shadowing experience as a high school freshman, start looking into hospitals and clinics now and ask about opportunities for volunteering or job shadowing. Even though you might not be able to directly shadow a neurosurgeon right away, getting involved in healthcare settings as early as possible will give you exposure to medical environments. Plus, the earlier you can connect with people in the field, the better your chances will be later on when you need mentorship.
A good start could be volunteering in hospitals, especially in departments like neurology or physical therapy, as you’ll see patients who are recovering from neurological surgeries.
While HOSA is a great organization to get involved in, there are also a lot of science fairs, summer medical programs, and neuroscience camps that can add to your knowledge and stand out to admissions committees. The Neuro Camp Doc mentioned is a great example, but also look into specialized programs that focus on neuroscience research. Being able to show you've done some serious research in neuroscience will definitely make your application pop. Also if you're able to, reach out to local universities or research institutions and see if you can volunteer in neuroscience labs. Research is a major part of neurosurgery, and hands-on experience is invaluable. Not only does it help you get familiar with research protocols, but it also shows you’re invested in the field.
As you continue your high school journey, try to take on leadership roles (like running for student government or starting a healthcare-related club). Neurosurgeons need to be able to lead teams, make high-pressure decisions, and communicate effectively with both patients and medical staff. Show admissions committees that you can handle responsibility and lead by example — these qualities are crucial for a future neurosurgeon.
Don’t Worry About the Roadblocks Redit!
I know this can seem like a long journey, but keep in mind: you are exactly where you need to be. Don’t let doubts sneak in, especially because you’re still in your freshman year. If you stay focused, work hard, and keep pursuing every opportunity, you will absolutely get there.
College is not a race — don’t stress about having everything figured out immediately. Even if you hit some bumps along the way, the most important thing is that you’re dedicated and passionate about your goals.
Here are some helpful resources and few other paths also like research and..... to help you on your path to becoming a neurosurgeon as well.
1. Websites & Online Resources
American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS)
Their website has tons of resources about the neurosurgery field, including educational tools, career paths, and even opportunities to connect with professionals in the field.
Neurosurgery Research and Education Foundation (NREF)
A great place to find research, scholarships, and educational opportunities related to neurosurgery.
Coursera and edX - Neuroscience Courses
These online learning platforms offer free and paid courses on neuroscience, biology, anatomy, and even medical school prep. They’re a great way to dive into the subjects that will be key in your future studies.
2. Books & Study Materials
"Neurosurgery: The Essentials" by Andrew H. Kaye and Graham J. Lister
This book offers an accessible, yet thorough, introduction to the world of neurosurgery. It’s an excellent read if you’re interested in understanding what the day-to-day life of a neurosurgeon is like.
"The Brain: The Story of You" by David Eagleman
A great read for anyone interested in neuroscience. It’ll give you a deeper understanding of how the brain works, which is essential for your future career.
3. Summer Programs & Camps
Neuroscience Summer Camps
As Doc Frick mentioned, participating in camps like Neuro Camp can offer an introduction to neuroscience and provide hands-on research experience. Some universities offer summer programs that focus on neuroscience and neurobiology for high school students.
Look into programs at schools like Harvard, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins for opportunities!
Summer Medical Programs
Some programs focus specifically on preparing students for a future in medicine, and they often include shadowing or research opportunities. Consider looking into:
National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF): Medicine
The Science and Engineering Program at MIT
Future Doctors Programs by local universities
4. Volunteering & Shadowing Opportunities
Hospital Volunteering
Reach out to hospitals in your area and ask if they have shadowing or volunteering programs, especially in departments related to neurology or physical therapy. Some hospitals also offer summer internships for high school students interested in healthcare.
Doctors Without Borders
Even though you might be too young to volunteer directly, you can still support the mission of Doctors Without Borders and get involved in fundraising and awareness initiatives. This will help you build leadership skills and demonstrate your passion for healthcare.
5. Professional Organizations for Networking
Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
If you’re interested in joining a student-driven medical association, SNMA offers mentorship, leadership opportunities, and educational programs geared toward students pursuing careers in medicine.
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA)
It is a fantastic organization for students interested in medicine, and are offering networking, competitive events, and career exploration. It’s an excellent way to gain exposure to the medical field and build leadership skills.
You can just visit HOSA and check it out furthur.
6. Research Opportunities
University Research Labs
Many universities allow high school students to get involved in research labs, especially in the field of neuroscience. Reach out to professors or lab directors and ask about internship or volunteer opportunities.
Schools like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins often have outreach programs or are open to high school students who show initiative.
Neuroscience Research Conferences
As you advance in your studies, you can attend conferences to connect with researchers in the field. The Society for Neuroscience (SfN) hosts events where students can learn about the latest research and network with professionals.
I’m confident that with the right mindset, you’re going to absolutely crush this! Keep asking questions, stay involved, and never stop pushing yourself.
Good luck, Redit! You’ve got this and I know you do! ✨🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for the advice.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Redit as an aspiring neurosurgeon you should focus on taking as many challenging and comprehensive high school courses you can to prepare for you for the rigorous academic requirements of medical school and beyond. Below are my recommended high school courses you should pursue for a career as a neurosurgeon.
• BIOLOGY: A strong foundation in biology is essential for understanding the structure and function of the human body, including the nervous system. Topics such as anatomy, physiology, genetics, and cellular biology are particularly relevant.
• CHEMISTRY: Chemistry provides the fundamental principles underlying biological processes and is a prerequisite for many college-level science courses. Focus on both general chemistry and organic chemistry to develop a strong understanding of chemical concepts.
• PHYSICS: Physics principles are important in understanding how the body interacts with physical forces and energy, particularly in fields such as biomechanics and neuroimaging. Concepts such as mechanics, electricity, and optics are relevant to neurosurgery.
• MATHEMATICS: A solid foundation in mathematics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus, is essential for success in science and medical courses. Mathematics skills are used in various aspects of medical research, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• ANATOMY/PHYSIOLOGY: If available, consider taking courses in anatomy and physiology to gain a deeper understanding of the structure and function of the human body. These courses can provide valuable insights into the complexities of the nervous system.
• ADVANCED PLACEMENT: Whenever possible, enroll in AP or honors-level courses to challenge yourself academically and demonstrate your ability to handle rigorous coursework. These courses may also earn college credit, reducing the course load in college.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Though your level of involvement in an activity plays significantly influences its impact on your application, the kinds of activities you choose are also very important. As your interested in Neurosurgery, you should choose extracurriculars that showcase your skills in the sciences and your commitment to pursuing medicine.
• DOCTOR'S WITHOUT BORDERS: This international organization provides medical professionals with the opportunity to volunteer in high-need communities around the world. High school Doctors Without Borders clubs typically raise awareness and funds to support Doctors Without Borders’ mission. By getting involved with this organization and taking on a leadership role, you can show your empathy and dedication to helping others.
• HOSA: Future Health Professionals
This national organization provides pre-professional guidance to high schoolers who are interested in becoming doctors, nurses, or pursuing other healthcare-related careers. HOSA organizations offer students an unusual opportunity to simultaneously learn about medical careers and show off their knowledge in HOSA’s competitions.
• NEURO CAMP: Free summer outreach program that brings together a group of 15-20 highly motivated high school students in an instructional course introducing them to neuroscience. Students will learn the fundamentals concepts of neuroscience and basic lab techniques in Molecular Neurobiology, Neurophysiology and Neuroanatomy. The overall goal of the program is to provide an exciting and rewarding introduction to research in neuroscience to a broad range of high school students.
• LEADERSHIP ROLES: Taking on leadership roles is valuable to admissions committees. Doctors must have the ability to lead a team and make decisions under pressure..You can try student government leadership roles, event coordination, or club leadership to show how well you handle responsibilities. Being an effective leader means you can be a good role model to the people around you.
• BIOLOGY: A strong foundation in biology is essential for understanding the structure and function of the human body, including the nervous system. Topics such as anatomy, physiology, genetics, and cellular biology are particularly relevant.
• CHEMISTRY: Chemistry provides the fundamental principles underlying biological processes and is a prerequisite for many college-level science courses. Focus on both general chemistry and organic chemistry to develop a strong understanding of chemical concepts.
• PHYSICS: Physics principles are important in understanding how the body interacts with physical forces and energy, particularly in fields such as biomechanics and neuroimaging. Concepts such as mechanics, electricity, and optics are relevant to neurosurgery.
• MATHEMATICS: A solid foundation in mathematics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus, is essential for success in science and medical courses. Mathematics skills are used in various aspects of medical research, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• ANATOMY/PHYSIOLOGY: If available, consider taking courses in anatomy and physiology to gain a deeper understanding of the structure and function of the human body. These courses can provide valuable insights into the complexities of the nervous system.
• ADVANCED PLACEMENT: Whenever possible, enroll in AP or honors-level courses to challenge yourself academically and demonstrate your ability to handle rigorous coursework. These courses may also earn college credit, reducing the course load in college.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Though your level of involvement in an activity plays significantly influences its impact on your application, the kinds of activities you choose are also very important. As your interested in Neurosurgery, you should choose extracurriculars that showcase your skills in the sciences and your commitment to pursuing medicine.
• DOCTOR'S WITHOUT BORDERS: This international organization provides medical professionals with the opportunity to volunteer in high-need communities around the world. High school Doctors Without Borders clubs typically raise awareness and funds to support Doctors Without Borders’ mission. By getting involved with this organization and taking on a leadership role, you can show your empathy and dedication to helping others.
• HOSA: Future Health Professionals
This national organization provides pre-professional guidance to high schoolers who are interested in becoming doctors, nurses, or pursuing other healthcare-related careers. HOSA organizations offer students an unusual opportunity to simultaneously learn about medical careers and show off their knowledge in HOSA’s competitions.
• NEURO CAMP: Free summer outreach program that brings together a group of 15-20 highly motivated high school students in an instructional course introducing them to neuroscience. Students will learn the fundamentals concepts of neuroscience and basic lab techniques in Molecular Neurobiology, Neurophysiology and Neuroanatomy. The overall goal of the program is to provide an exciting and rewarding introduction to research in neuroscience to a broad range of high school students.
• LEADERSHIP ROLES: Taking on leadership roles is valuable to admissions committees. Doctors must have the ability to lead a team and make decisions under pressure..You can try student government leadership roles, event coordination, or club leadership to show how well you handle responsibilities. Being an effective leader means you can be a good role model to the people around you.