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I am a Senior in Highschool and I want to become a General Pediatrician but Doctor what are the steps that I need to take?
I know I have to get my Bachelor's degree, Graduate from medical school. But what else do I need to do? I will be attending UCR what can I do and who can I talk to for more information and additional help.
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Deva Varshini’s Answer
As a senior in high school aspiring to become a general pediatrician, you’re already on the right track by planning early! Your journey will begin at UCR, where you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree—any major is fine, but you must complete the medical school prerequisites like biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and math. During college, it’s super important to maintain a strong GPA, gain clinical experience through volunteering or shadowing pediatricians, get involved in student organizations (like UCR’s Pre-Health Student Association), and build connections with mentors and advisors. You’ll also need to take the MCAT, typically in your junior year, and apply to medical school your senior year. Medical school takes four years, with the first two focused on academics and the last two on clinical rotations—including pediatrics! After med school, you’ll complete a 3-year pediatric residency where you’ll work directly with infants, children, and teens. Once that’s done, you’ll take your board certification exam through the American Board of Pediatrics to officially become a practicing pediatrician. Along the way, make sure to connect with UCR’s pre-health advising office, professors, and programs like the Thomas Haider Program if you’re interested in staying at UCR for med school. Keep your passion alive, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Go Highlanders!!!!