2 answers
1
Question
Updated
225 views
What are the most common mistakes that pre-med students make early in college, and how can I avoid them? #Spring25
I am majoring in exercise science at Pitt
Login to comment
2 answers
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Kevin,
I don't know about "most common" mistakes, but you definitely want to check the pre-requisite courses for each school that you would consider, and make sure you get those under your belt. What's required can be a bit different for each school and might also change. Talk to admissions offices to make sure you are on track.
You need to earn a bachelors degree before you can apply to med school. Many pre-med students pick biology, chemistry or biochemistry, but it doesn't have to be a science. You can major in something that you enjoy. You still need to do the pre-requisite science courses though.
For whatever it's worth, MCAT scores for students who majored in a science were not higher than those of students who picked a different major. Your narrative about your path to medicine would also be more interesting which might be an advantage.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
I don't know about "most common" mistakes, but you definitely want to check the pre-requisite courses for each school that you would consider, and make sure you get those under your belt. What's required can be a bit different for each school and might also change. Talk to admissions offices to make sure you are on track.
You need to earn a bachelors degree before you can apply to med school. Many pre-med students pick biology, chemistry or biochemistry, but it doesn't have to be a science. You can major in something that you enjoy. You still need to do the pre-requisite science courses though.
For whatever it's worth, MCAT scores for students who majored in a science were not higher than those of students who picked a different major. Your narrative about your path to medicine would also be more interesting which might be an advantage.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
151
Answers
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi Kevin,
One of the most common mistakes pre-med students make early in college is not carefully planning their coursework to meet medical school prerequisites. Since you’re majoring in Exercise Science at Pitt, it’s important to remember that not all of your major courses will cover essential pre-med requirements like Organic Chemistry, Physics, or Biochemistry. To avoid this mistake, make it a priority to meet with a pre-med advisor as soon as possible to map out a four-year plan that incorporates both your major requirements and the necessary science courses. Another mistake is prioritizing major-specific classes over core sciences, which can lead to gaps in your medical school application. Balancing your Exercise Science coursework with foundational pre-med subjects is key to staying on track. Additionally, some students underestimate the importance of maintaining a strong GPA from the start, thinking they can make up for it later. Instead, aim to develop consistent study habits early on, focusing on doing well in both major and science courses. Getting involved in healthcare-related activities, like volunteering or shadowing, can also help you gain experience while balancing academics. By being proactive and organized from the beginning, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother and more successful path to medical school.
One of the most common mistakes pre-med students make early in college is not carefully planning their coursework to meet medical school prerequisites. Since you’re majoring in Exercise Science at Pitt, it’s important to remember that not all of your major courses will cover essential pre-med requirements like Organic Chemistry, Physics, or Biochemistry. To avoid this mistake, make it a priority to meet with a pre-med advisor as soon as possible to map out a four-year plan that incorporates both your major requirements and the necessary science courses. Another mistake is prioritizing major-specific classes over core sciences, which can lead to gaps in your medical school application. Balancing your Exercise Science coursework with foundational pre-med subjects is key to staying on track. Additionally, some students underestimate the importance of maintaining a strong GPA from the start, thinking they can make up for it later. Instead, aim to develop consistent study habits early on, focusing on doing well in both major and science courses. Getting involved in healthcare-related activities, like volunteering or shadowing, can also help you gain experience while balancing academics. By being proactive and organized from the beginning, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother and more successful path to medical school.