2 answers
Oluebube
Student
Raleigh, North Carolina
2
Questions
Updated
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What helped you stay on track through college and medical school if you didn’t have strong financial or family support early on?
I’m a high school student planning to go into pre-med, and I’ve mostly been figuring out the whole college process on my own. Money is a big concern for me, so I know I’ll have to rely a lot on scholarships and my own effort to get through school. I asked this question because I want to hear from people who’ve been in a similar situation and still made it. Their advice would really help me understand what to expect and how to stay on track.
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2 answers
James Hanson
Pediatric Intensive Care Physician; Consultant
266
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
James’s Answer
I truly hope you are able to find the financial help you need. I wish our country was like many others whopay to help strong students get through such education, rather than have them take on huge debt.
In my case, I was able to work a little and obtain loans that were burdensome, but still allowed me the time I needed study and enjoy life during school, and be able to pay the loans off once I became a wage-earner.
Don't be shy trying to identify, and rely on the help of any family and friends you do have.
There may be support available through unexpected sources. Local medical associations often have connections, as may Kiwanis, Lyons Clubs, etc.
Good luck!
In my case, I was able to work a little and obtain loans that were burdensome, but still allowed me the time I needed study and enjoy life during school, and be able to pay the loans off once I became a wage-earner.
Don't be shy trying to identify, and rely on the help of any family and friends you do have.
There may be support available through unexpected sources. Local medical associations often have connections, as may Kiwanis, Lyons Clubs, etc.
Good luck!
Thank you so much, James!
Oluebube
Joanna Fraszczak
Account Operations Manager / TL
5
Answers
Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Updated
Joanna’s Answer
Hi Oluebube,
thank you for the question.
The key is to treat the entire process as a long-term project rather than a single big leap.
First: The fact that you’re already exploring the admissions process on your own is a huge advantage. The sooner you learn about the requirements, deadlines, and available forms of financial aid (need-based scholarships, merit-based scholarships, grants, local programs), the fewer surprises you’ll face later. Many students miss out on money simply because they don’t know they’re eligible for it. Second: Scholarships are the foundation of staying in school. This meant consistent study , not perfection, but regularity. Even if the first year is difficult, it’s often good grades that later open the door to further forms of support. Treat your studies as a financial investment, not just an intellectual one.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for help, for example, from mentors, upperclassmen, or student organizations. Remember, there will be moments of doubt, especially when you see others who aren’t worried about money. Remember that your path may be harder, but that doesn’t mean it’s worse. Many great doctors have reached this point precisely because of their determination, not their financial resources. You’ll succeed because anything is possible! However, it requires strategy, discipline, and patience. Since you’re already approaching this with awareness, you’re much further along than you think. Focus on the next realistic step.
Good luck,
Joanna
thank you for the question.
The key is to treat the entire process as a long-term project rather than a single big leap.
First: The fact that you’re already exploring the admissions process on your own is a huge advantage. The sooner you learn about the requirements, deadlines, and available forms of financial aid (need-based scholarships, merit-based scholarships, grants, local programs), the fewer surprises you’ll face later. Many students miss out on money simply because they don’t know they’re eligible for it. Second: Scholarships are the foundation of staying in school. This meant consistent study , not perfection, but regularity. Even if the first year is difficult, it’s often good grades that later open the door to further forms of support. Treat your studies as a financial investment, not just an intellectual one.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for help, for example, from mentors, upperclassmen, or student organizations. Remember, there will be moments of doubt, especially when you see others who aren’t worried about money. Remember that your path may be harder, but that doesn’t mean it’s worse. Many great doctors have reached this point precisely because of their determination, not their financial resources. You’ll succeed because anything is possible! However, it requires strategy, discipline, and patience. Since you’re already approaching this with awareness, you’re much further along than you think. Focus on the next realistic step.
Good luck,
Joanna
Thank you!
Oluebube