3 answers
Sophia
Student
Richmond, California
1
Question
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What should I do as a ninth grader to become a neurologist?
Are there any skills/extracurriculars that I can build on for the future? Thanks!!
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3 answers
Myeshia Wells
11
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Myeshia’s Answer
Hi Sophia. You have a great goal in mind and a whole life ahead of you. I would definitely start by reading as much as you can on the subject. This can give you a head start, and you will become familiar with so much once you are ready for college. Trust me when I say this: I bet a lot of students who are in college now studying to be a neurologist wish they could have started at least by reading to understand parts of the subject now. I wish you many Blessings, and I know you will achieve this.
Thank you so much, I'll look into some good books!
Sophia
Alexander Verma
Physician - neurologist
8
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Alexander’s Answer
Hi Sophia,
To clarify, are you wanting to be a neurologist, a doctor specializing in treating neurological conditions? Or do you want to be a neuroscientist who primarily does research on the brain and nerves?
In either case, you will want to get a bachelor's degree at least before moving on to graduate school. For medical school your major isn't that important so long as you complete the prerequisite courses for medical school (chemistry, physics, organic chemistry, biology, calculus). I have known doctors who majored in theater, music, or Spanish who went on to practice medicine. For neuroscience a bachelor's in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or neuroscience would be ideal.
As far as what you can do in high school, honestly not much. Getting into college is required; getting into a good college (one with good name recognition and ties to a reputable medical school or research program) is even better. Your high school guidance counselor can help with this. Additionally, you can shadow a neurologist or neuroscientist to get a feel for what their day to day life is like and pick their brain about the things they like and dislike about their career. Sometimes building that connection can give you an in for grad school or med school applications.
To clarify, are you wanting to be a neurologist, a doctor specializing in treating neurological conditions? Or do you want to be a neuroscientist who primarily does research on the brain and nerves?
In either case, you will want to get a bachelor's degree at least before moving on to graduate school. For medical school your major isn't that important so long as you complete the prerequisite courses for medical school (chemistry, physics, organic chemistry, biology, calculus). I have known doctors who majored in theater, music, or Spanish who went on to practice medicine. For neuroscience a bachelor's in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or neuroscience would be ideal.
As far as what you can do in high school, honestly not much. Getting into college is required; getting into a good college (one with good name recognition and ties to a reputable medical school or research program) is even better. Your high school guidance counselor can help with this. Additionally, you can shadow a neurologist or neuroscientist to get a feel for what their day to day life is like and pick their brain about the things they like and dislike about their career. Sometimes building that connection can give you an in for grad school or med school applications.
Krishawna Crum
Credentialing Assistant 3
9
Answers
Updated
Krishawna’s Answer
Hi Sophia, it's great that you're thinking about your future. Since you're in 9th grade, here are some ideas: look for local volunteer opportunities in healthcare if you can. Check out your local library for any activities they offer. Also, consider visiting or researching nearby colleges for camps, courses, or volunteer work. Whatever career you choose, stay open to different opportunities. Even if something isn't exactly what you want, it can still teach you valuable skills like time management, leadership, and organization.
Thank you for answering, I'll definitely be checking out things near me :)
Sophia