2 answers
Kaitlyn
Student
Beaver, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Updated
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As a high school freshman with an interest in human anatomy, medicine, and helping people, how do I gain experience/knowledge to narrow down a career choice/college major ?
There are so many options in the medical field so how can I gain experience and/or get more detailed information before applying to college? Is there specific coursework beyond just science and math classes that would be beneficial to me?
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2 answers
Flora Elum-Ryu
Program Manager
1
Answer
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Flora’s Answer
I'd probably start by contacting your HS councilor and career councilors at a couple of your local colleges/universities. They will likely be able to help you connect with department leaders, professors and alumni who can share more more about their experience within different specialties in the field.
If you have anyone in your family or your friends' families who works in the medical field, it might also be worth reaching out to them to ask about their experience. They could further connect you with their colleagues in different specialties, so you could ask them as well!
Lastly, Reddit is a great place for research and personal stories!
If you have anyone in your family or your friends' families who works in the medical field, it might also be worth reaching out to them to ask about their experience. They could further connect you with their colleagues in different specialties, so you could ask them as well!
Lastly, Reddit is a great place for research and personal stories!
Tanaka Ndoro
6
Answers
Updated
Tanaka’s Answer
Exploring Careers in Human Anatomy and Medicine
As a high school freshman, you're wise to start exploring your interests early. Here are some ways to gain experience and knowledge:
Volunteer Opportunities
1. Hospitals or clinics: Volunteer to gain exposure to medical environments.
2. Nursing homes or assisted living facilities: Interact with patients and understand healthcare needs.
3. Community health organizations: Participate in health-related initiatives.
Academic Pursuits
1. Take advanced biology or anatomy classes: Deepen your understanding of human anatomy.
2. Explore online resources: Websites like Khan Academy, Crash Course, or Coursera offer valuable content.
3. Join science clubs or competitions: Engage with like-minded peers and learn from experiences.
Career Exploration
1. Research various careers: Look into fields like medicine, nursing, physical therapy, biomedical research, or healthcare administration.
2. Job shadow or interview professionals: Gain insights from people in roles that interest you.
3. Consider internships or summer programs: Many organizations offer programs for high school students.
College Major Research
1. Look into majors: Explore fields like biology, pre-med, nursing, health sciences, or biomedical engineering.
2. Talk to college advisors or current students: Understand program requirements and opportunities.
Additional Tips
1. Stay curious and ask questions: Continuously learn and seek guidance.
2. Network with professionals: Build relationships in your desired field.
3. Reflect on your experiences: Identify what aspects of human anatomy and medicine truly resonate with you.
By exploring these opportunities and gaining knowledge, you'll be well on your way to narrowing down your career choices and college major!
As a high school freshman, you're wise to start exploring your interests early. Here are some ways to gain experience and knowledge:
Volunteer Opportunities
1. Hospitals or clinics: Volunteer to gain exposure to medical environments.
2. Nursing homes or assisted living facilities: Interact with patients and understand healthcare needs.
3. Community health organizations: Participate in health-related initiatives.
Academic Pursuits
1. Take advanced biology or anatomy classes: Deepen your understanding of human anatomy.
2. Explore online resources: Websites like Khan Academy, Crash Course, or Coursera offer valuable content.
3. Join science clubs or competitions: Engage with like-minded peers and learn from experiences.
Career Exploration
1. Research various careers: Look into fields like medicine, nursing, physical therapy, biomedical research, or healthcare administration.
2. Job shadow or interview professionals: Gain insights from people in roles that interest you.
3. Consider internships or summer programs: Many organizations offer programs for high school students.
College Major Research
1. Look into majors: Explore fields like biology, pre-med, nursing, health sciences, or biomedical engineering.
2. Talk to college advisors or current students: Understand program requirements and opportunities.
Additional Tips
1. Stay curious and ask questions: Continuously learn and seek guidance.
2. Network with professionals: Build relationships in your desired field.
3. Reflect on your experiences: Identify what aspects of human anatomy and medicine truly resonate with you.
By exploring these opportunities and gaining knowledge, you'll be well on your way to narrowing down your career choices and college major!