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What undergrad experience was the most valuable to you as a physician?

What experience during your undergraduate education was most valuable in preparing for your career in medicine? I am a senior in high school preparing to start college next year, and I’m want to make the most of my time in undergrad. My goal is to pursue medicine, specifically surgery. What were the most meaningful things you did during this time that either prepared you for medical school or your career as a physician? And why? Thank you so much! #fall25

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Payal’s Answer

For me, it came down to doing what I loved, and doing it well. I was a Physics Major and spend the bulk of my extracurriculars in volunteering/service (medical & non-medical). I was naturally able to excel because I pursued what I enjoyed. I decided on medicine about halfway through undergraduate and I would recommend keeping your options open as medicine is a long and difficult path and you want to be sure of it.

During college, would keep your grades up and do at least 1 clinical experience, 1 volunteer, 1 research and 1 leadership to show you are well-rounded.

I had the opportunity to study abroad for a semester and that was such a great experience for me to have fun and learn more about myself and the world. If you have that opportunity, I would highly recommend it!
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James’s Answer

Your question is fascinating. My answer may surprise you. The most valuable experiences I had during college were singing in groups, playing intramural sports, being in plays, and learning to live on my own away from home.
Yes, all my courses were helpful in building my knowledge base. Lab sciences were helpful to become comfortable with the scientific method, precise measurement, understanding chemistry, physics, and biology...
To be a good physician, you need to be a good person. One who knows about more than medical science. One who can communicate with people from different walks of life. One who is inquisitive and caring.
So, do explore all you can explore. Try things out. To the extent possible, find ways to spend time following physicians through their work days (and possibly their nights to learn what being an on-call surgeon is like).
Have fun as you do it, whatever "it" is!
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Judith’s Answer

Hi Elise,

Being a well rounded person with good communication skills is essential to being a good physician. Time management skills are also essential- learning how to pace yourself and “recharge your batteries” .

In my mind there isn’t a single course or major that I would recommend other than perhaps a psychology course to give you insight into human behavior- your own, your colleagues and your patients - so you can be a better listener, communicator, and team member.
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Rita’s Answer

Although no such job existed during my undergraduate time, I recommend everyone to be a scribe. You learn the language of medicine. You interact with patients and doctors. This will help you see what a doctor does. This will help you so much when you are in medical school. Come to the office when the doctor comes and stay when s/he leaves because that will be your life. If after doing this for a summer and you don't like it, you just saved yourself time and money going to medical school .
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