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How can I make sure on the medical specialty I which to seek for after I'm done with generals?
I've got a specific specialty in mind that I am interested in, though I've been told people must be sure so how do I make sure I actually want it?
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Hwal’s Answer
Diego,
I'm a primary care internal medicine PA, so let me add me share another perspective with you. I would encourage you to try to keep an open mind about the specialty choice. Some know which specialty they want to go in even before they start training, whereas others don't, then there are others who feel confident they want to go into a specific speciality during didactic training, only to change their minds because of their experiences during clinical rotations. I knew I wanted to go into primary care/general medicine even before I started PA school, and that hasn't changed. So, unless you feel absolutely sure about going into a certain speciality to begin with, I hope you try to enjoy the process of learning about different specialties until you figure out which one you really like.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Hwal
I'm a primary care internal medicine PA, so let me add me share another perspective with you. I would encourage you to try to keep an open mind about the specialty choice. Some know which specialty they want to go in even before they start training, whereas others don't, then there are others who feel confident they want to go into a specific speciality during didactic training, only to change their minds because of their experiences during clinical rotations. I knew I wanted to go into primary care/general medicine even before I started PA school, and that hasn't changed. So, unless you feel absolutely sure about going into a certain speciality to begin with, I hope you try to enjoy the process of learning about different specialties until you figure out which one you really like.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Hwal
Updated
James’s Answer
You do not need to know what specialty you will ultimately choose. During medical school you take rotations in several specialties, and you get to choose some elective rotations as well. I didn't choose pediatrics until the last second - in fact I applied for internships in both internal medicine and pediatrics. I advise you to gain exposure and experience in as many fields as possible so when you do need to decide you feel confident in your choice.