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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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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!
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Kathleen’s Answer

I applaud you for thinking ahead! You have some great advice already, so I would just add this: think about what you love to do. Do you enjoy puzzles? Creating or fixing things? Solving mysteries? Cooking or baking? Drawing? Growing things? It may sound odd, but all these interests and talents play into some area of the medical field. Do you enjoy being around and listening to people, being in the foreground, in charge, or in the background as a helper? My personal story is that I loved puzzles and experiments, baking, reading and did not enjoy large groups of people or being in the foreground of any activity. I found the world of the clinical laboratory a perfect fit. And within that field, many options! I never had trouble finding a job when I moved or wanted a new challenge, and the work-life balance is good. Within the medical field, most diagnoses and treatment plans rely on accurate lab results. So while it's important, it's also in the background...perfect for introverts but enough interaction for everyone.
Best to you as you explore the many rewarding options in the medical world.
Kathie
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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!
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