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What year in college do you need to start thinking about graduate school, medical school, law school, etc?

I'm curious when I need to start thinking about the future education I will need once I graduate. I know that there is no time like the present, but what is realistic? #college #law #pre-med #graduate-school

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Carmela’s Answer

I don't think it's ever too early to start gathering information and thinking about your post-college plans, provided that you give your self time to adjust to college and do not put too much pressure on yourself.


If you start gathering information early on, it may help you (a) focus your preferences, and (b) plan strategically for grad school admissions and/or career development (which might include taking certain courses, seeking related internships, networking etc.). Just one example (and I just answered a Career Village question on this point): if you are interested in law school, it's good to know at the beginning of your college career that some of the most valuable classes you can take are those that help you develop writing, critical thinking and presentation skills.


A few ideas for gathering information:
- When you are settled in at school, you may want to find out what resources are available there for helping students with careers, interships and graduate school admissions.

- I recommend seeking out professors who might be open to discussing your future plans. I found them to be vey helpful.
- Network with family/friends who may have information about your areas of interest.
- Of course, the internet is a great resource to get a feel for academic programs and career options.


In sum, I suggest gathering information early (as time and your workload permit). Don't get stressed and take time to enjoy your college experinence. Best of luck!

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Richard’s Answer

In order to graduate college on time ,complete medical school prerequisites and have a summer to devote to the MCAT you will need to make a plan freshman year. It's ok to change your mind along the way. You just might have to take summer classes in order to stay on schedule.
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Estelle’s Answer

Well, of course grades matter very much on all of these applications, so start preparing for success early by keeping your grades up! As far as deciding a career path, the sooner you decide, the better to save time and money on classes. However, your major is not as important as your undergraduate grades, your MCAT score, your letters of reference, and your personal statements on your medical school application. For now, just focus on finding a major that really interests you in college.
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Rachel’s Answer

I agree. You need to plan on taking pre-med classes (and getting A's) your freshman year. If you decide later (like my husband), you are looking at spending extra time in college. He decided his 4th year of college while finishing an engineering degree that he wanted to go to medical school. That added two additional years to his undergrad.
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