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McKenzie
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Education for Pediatric Oncologist?
If my dream career is to be a Pediatric Oncologist, what should I major in for college, and what opportunities would most benefit me in the long run?
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, McKenzie!
With a whopping 43 years under my belt in the field of medical education, I'm here to guide you on your journey towards your dream career as a Pediatric Oncologist.
**Choosing Pediatric Oncology as a Major for a Rewarding Career as a Pediatric Oncologist**
If you've always dreamed of becoming a pediatric oncologist, it's crucial to pick the right college major. This will equip you with the necessary knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to follow this career path. Here are some helpful tips to guide you:
1. Earning a Bachelor's Degree in Biology or a Similar Field:
Starting with a bachelor's degree in biology or a similar field like biochemistry, molecular biology, or cellular biology is a great first step towards a career in pediatric oncology. These programs will give you a robust foundation in biological sciences, crucial for understanding cancer and its treatment.
2. Completing Pre-Med Coursework:
Alongside a biology degree, it's vital to complete pre-med coursework to prepare for medical school. This typically includes courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics, as well as courses focusing on human anatomy and physiology.
3. Gaining Research Experience:
Research experience is key for budding pediatric oncologists. Seek opportunities to work in labs or research institutions where you can get hands-on experience in cancer research, molecular biology, and other related fields. This will not only hone your research skills but also give you valuable insights into pediatric oncology.
4. Acquiring Clinical Experience:
Clinical experience is equally important. Look for chances to volunteer or intern in hospitals or clinical settings where you can interact with pediatric oncology patients and learn from experienced pediatric oncologists.
5. Attending Medical School and Residency:
After earning your undergraduate degree, you'll need to attend medical school to get your Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. During medical school, you'll complete coursework in pediatrics, oncology, and other related fields. Post medical school, you'll need to complete a residency program in pediatrics, which typically lasts three years.
6. Pursuing Fellowship Training:
After your residency, you may opt for fellowship training in pediatric oncology. This extra training equips you with specialized knowledge and skills for diagnosing and treating childhood cancers.
7. Getting Certified:
To practice as a pediatric oncologist, you'll need to get certified by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) and the American Board of Medical Oncology (ABMO). To become certified, you'll need to pass written and practical exams in both pediatrics and medical oncology.
In a nutshell, to become a pediatric oncologist, you should major in biology or a related field in college, complete pre-med coursework, gain research and clinical experience, attend medical school, complete a residency program in pediatrics, and consider fellowship training and certification.
References:
1. American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Pediatric Cancer. Retrieved from <https://www.cancer.org/cancer/pediatric-cancer.html>
2. American Society of Clinical Oncology. (n.d.). Pediatric Oncology. Retrieved from <https://www.asco.org/practice-guidelines/cancer-care-initiatives/pediatric-oncology>
3. Association of American Medical Colleges. (n.d.). Becoming a Physician. Retrieved from <https://www.aamc.org/students/medical-school-bound/becoming-physician/>
Note: This information is a general guide and may differ based on the specific requirements of the college or university you attend. It's essential to consult with an academic advisor or a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
You Will deserve the best position at The Mayo Clinic. [#1]
Organic Web Results:
www.indeed.com
Pros and Cons of a Pediatric Oncology Career (With Common Job Duties)
Being a pediatric oncology professional can allow you to make a positive difference, earn a high salary, experience an innovative field and ...
With a whopping 43 years under my belt in the field of medical education, I'm here to guide you on your journey towards your dream career as a Pediatric Oncologist.
**Choosing Pediatric Oncology as a Major for a Rewarding Career as a Pediatric Oncologist**
If you've always dreamed of becoming a pediatric oncologist, it's crucial to pick the right college major. This will equip you with the necessary knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to follow this career path. Here are some helpful tips to guide you:
1. Earning a Bachelor's Degree in Biology or a Similar Field:
Starting with a bachelor's degree in biology or a similar field like biochemistry, molecular biology, or cellular biology is a great first step towards a career in pediatric oncology. These programs will give you a robust foundation in biological sciences, crucial for understanding cancer and its treatment.
2. Completing Pre-Med Coursework:
Alongside a biology degree, it's vital to complete pre-med coursework to prepare for medical school. This typically includes courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics, as well as courses focusing on human anatomy and physiology.
3. Gaining Research Experience:
Research experience is key for budding pediatric oncologists. Seek opportunities to work in labs or research institutions where you can get hands-on experience in cancer research, molecular biology, and other related fields. This will not only hone your research skills but also give you valuable insights into pediatric oncology.
4. Acquiring Clinical Experience:
Clinical experience is equally important. Look for chances to volunteer or intern in hospitals or clinical settings where you can interact with pediatric oncology patients and learn from experienced pediatric oncologists.
5. Attending Medical School and Residency:
After earning your undergraduate degree, you'll need to attend medical school to get your Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. During medical school, you'll complete coursework in pediatrics, oncology, and other related fields. Post medical school, you'll need to complete a residency program in pediatrics, which typically lasts three years.
6. Pursuing Fellowship Training:
After your residency, you may opt for fellowship training in pediatric oncology. This extra training equips you with specialized knowledge and skills for diagnosing and treating childhood cancers.
7. Getting Certified:
To practice as a pediatric oncologist, you'll need to get certified by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) and the American Board of Medical Oncology (ABMO). To become certified, you'll need to pass written and practical exams in both pediatrics and medical oncology.
In a nutshell, to become a pediatric oncologist, you should major in biology or a related field in college, complete pre-med coursework, gain research and clinical experience, attend medical school, complete a residency program in pediatrics, and consider fellowship training and certification.
References:
1. American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Pediatric Cancer. Retrieved from <https://www.cancer.org/cancer/pediatric-cancer.html>
2. American Society of Clinical Oncology. (n.d.). Pediatric Oncology. Retrieved from <https://www.asco.org/practice-guidelines/cancer-care-initiatives/pediatric-oncology>
3. Association of American Medical Colleges. (n.d.). Becoming a Physician. Retrieved from <https://www.aamc.org/students/medical-school-bound/becoming-physician/>
Note: This information is a general guide and may differ based on the specific requirements of the college or university you attend. It's essential to consult with an academic advisor or a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
You Will deserve the best position at The Mayo Clinic. [#1]
Organic Web Results:
www.indeed.com
Pros and Cons of a Pediatric Oncology Career (With Common Job Duties)
Being a pediatric oncology professional can allow you to make a positive difference, earn a high salary, experience an innovative field and ...
Shelia Bereszniewicz
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Woodstock, Georgia
Updated
Shelia’s Answer
Becoming a doctor or a Pediatric Oncologist is an exciting journey you might want to embark on, especially if you have a deep love for the sciences. Have you ever considered volunteering at a hospital? It's an excellent opportunity to experience first-hand what being a doctor involves and to discover if oncology is the right field for you.
A smart move might be to choose a college that offers a biomedical sciences program. This major will expose you to most of the diverse subjects you'll need to tackle in medical school. You'll need to shine in your studies, take up leadership roles and clock in hours at a hospital, clinic or doctor's office. My daughter, for example, worked as a medical scribe during her undergrad degree. You'll also need to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and aim to score 510 or higher. It's a good idea to apply to several medical schools. The application process involves writing a top-notch personal statement, securing letters of recommendation, completing both a primary and secondary application, and acing an interview. Hopefully, you'll get multiple interviews where you'll have the chance to impress and stand out from the crowd.
Once you're accepted into medical school, you'll spend two years learning everything there is to know about the human body and how to diagnose patients (actors). Then, you'll spend the next 2 years on clinical rotations. You'll need to pass Step 1 to start your third year and Step 2 for your fourth year. Passing the medical boards is crucial to kick-start your residency. A Pediatric Oncologist residency can lasts up to 9 years with an optional fellowship. Here's wishing you all the best on your journey!
A smart move might be to choose a college that offers a biomedical sciences program. This major will expose you to most of the diverse subjects you'll need to tackle in medical school. You'll need to shine in your studies, take up leadership roles and clock in hours at a hospital, clinic or doctor's office. My daughter, for example, worked as a medical scribe during her undergrad degree. You'll also need to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and aim to score 510 or higher. It's a good idea to apply to several medical schools. The application process involves writing a top-notch personal statement, securing letters of recommendation, completing both a primary and secondary application, and acing an interview. Hopefully, you'll get multiple interviews where you'll have the chance to impress and stand out from the crowd.
Once you're accepted into medical school, you'll spend two years learning everything there is to know about the human body and how to diagnose patients (actors). Then, you'll spend the next 2 years on clinical rotations. You'll need to pass Step 1 to start your third year and Step 2 for your fourth year. Passing the medical boards is crucial to kick-start your residency. A Pediatric Oncologist residency can lasts up to 9 years with an optional fellowship. Here's wishing you all the best on your journey!