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Would it be impractical to major in biomedical engineering if I intended to go to med school?

I'm a senior in highschool, and I'm very interested in tech, engineering, and medicine! I would love to go into the medical field, and I don't know the best way to do that for me.

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Christos’s Answer

In my experience, the most accomplished doctors often have a background in non-engineering sciences such as biology, neuroscience, or chemistry. Engineering education, while rigorous and deeply rooted in practical applications of physics, chemistry, and biology, may not provide the theoretical foundation typically applied in a medical career. However, the resilience you gain from grappling with complex concepts, along with the creativity and problem-solving skills you develop, will undoubtedly be beneficial.

My primary concern for any young individual eager to embark on the path towards medical school is the risk of burnout. The journey through an engineering degree can be an exhilarating yet challenging adventure. It's akin to running a marathon before setting off on an even longer one. The fatigue from the first might prevent you from giving your all in the second.

I encourage you to shift your focus from what you want to study to who you aspire to become.
Does the prospect of applying scientific principles (be it chemistry, physics, or biology) to design lifeless objects for the betterment of people excite you?
If so, engineering might be your calling.
On the other hand, if the thought of dedicating many years to studying the intricate details of the human body and diagnosing patients appeals to you,
I'd suggest considering a science undergraduate degree followed by medical school.

In the grand scheme of things, there are no wrong decisions. The key to success in any field lies in maintaining self-awareness, being flexible in your thinking, and fostering a learning mindset. Best of luck!

Christos recommends the following next steps:

Interview a doctor or an engineer (family, friends) and see if you think you would like what they do.
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Robert’s Answer

That’s a good question. Check out search results for “prerequisites for medical school”. Not only can biomedical engineering courses help get you into most med schools, they’ll be of real value if you become a doctor. Medicine of tomorrow will involve much more technology, and you could be at an advantage with a biomed background. Smooth sailing, Elena!
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Anila’s Answer

I think if you are eventually going to med school, going to BME might be an overkill however if later you wish to do a MD/PhD, bachelors in BME might prepare you more.
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DAVID’s Answer

To become a biomedical engineer one can go directly to a college of apply school of biomedical engineering where your practical knowledge of physics , mathematics , chemistry and biology will be brought to bare .
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