4 answers
Shyanne
Student
Vinton, Virginia
1
Question
Asked
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As a 10th grader how could I reach a goal if my school can't help me?
How would I as a 10th grade student achieve me becoming a doctor l. I've always dreamed of being a doctor but my school doesn't have any classes we're we are learning that kind of stuff is there like a after school thing anywhere that I could sign up ?
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4 answers
Michele Marques
Information Architect
19
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Michele’s Answer
Hi Shyanne,
It's great that you have decided to become a doctor! Be aware that becoming a doctor involves many levels of education. Colleges and universities often have a pre-med program. Then you would study for an MD (medical degree) at a university. This is often a 4-year program, but can be longer for some specializations.
If you want to get involved in a medical profession earlier, you might look into other options. For example, pharmacy technicians can often graduate from a two- or three-year college program.
Research medical career options.
Research colleges and universities that offer pre-med programs or certification for your preferred medical career.
Find out what high school courses are required by your preferred college or university program.
It's great that you have decided to become a doctor! Be aware that becoming a doctor involves many levels of education. Colleges and universities often have a pre-med program. Then you would study for an MD (medical degree) at a university. This is often a 4-year program, but can be longer for some specializations.
If you want to get involved in a medical profession earlier, you might look into other options. For example, pharmacy technicians can often graduate from a two- or three-year college program.
Michele recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Shyanne
Scott Adler
Physician (recently retired)
32
Answers
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Hi Shyanne. First of all congratulations on having a goal and trying to find a path to pursue it. In terms of classes, don't worry, there are no specific courses that are needed in high school to become a doctor. unlike college where there are some requirements. That being said, taking science classes like biology, chemistry and physics would be helpful to find out if you find those subjects interesting and if you are good at them. If your school does not offer those classes, then some of the suggestions Michelle made might be helpful. If your school has a guidance counselor, you could reach out to them as well. As a doctor of internal medicine, I can tell you a career in medicine is very rewarding, giving you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Good luck!
Thank you so much!
Shyanne
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Shyanne, first let me commend you on your clear goal of becoming a doctor. I want you to know that there are alternative avenues beyond your school to pursue this dream. You could try exploring online courses on platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy, offering a variety of subjects, including pre-medical and healthcare-related topics. I also believe that local community colleges and universities may have programs or workshops for high school students interested in medicine, providing valuable insights and hands-on experiences.
I would also seek mentorship from professionals in the medical field, such as doctors or nurses, who can share experiences and offer guidance. Consider joining extracurricular activities aligned with your goals, such as science clubs or health-related programs. Volunteer at local hospitals or clinics to gain exposure to the medical environment and demonstrate commitment on college applications.
Your journey to becoming a doctor is unique, and despite your school not offering specific classes, there are numerous alternative paths available. Stay determined, explore opportunities, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from teachers, professionals, or local organizations.
I would also seek mentorship from professionals in the medical field, such as doctors or nurses, who can share experiences and offer guidance. Consider joining extracurricular activities aligned with your goals, such as science clubs or health-related programs. Volunteer at local hospitals or clinics to gain exposure to the medical environment and demonstrate commitment on college applications.
Your journey to becoming a doctor is unique, and despite your school not offering specific classes, there are numerous alternative paths available. Stay determined, explore opportunities, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from teachers, professionals, or local organizations.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Shyanne
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1180
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Shyanne !
I am happy to know that you are highly motivated to proceed with your career goal as a medical doctor ! That is wonderful and should be encouraged and nurtured and I would be happy to give you some advice. You can do it !
Of course, it goes without saying that high schools do not teach medicine, but most do teach biology and anatomy and chemistry. If your high school does not have these classes for their students, that is very disappointing. It sounds as though you may need to do something different but you have a choice of possibilities, so all is not lost.
Ask your parents if you could transfer to a different school for 11th and 12th grade. Ask if you could possibly go to a private high school for 11th and 12th grades. Also find out information about alternative schools like Montessori and Waldorf schools. Another possibility would be to do Home School through your district's Board of Education for which you would get a high school diploma. You should have your parent look into this because any of the things I mentioned would support your preparation for your interest in college. It would be a new experience for you but it does sound like you need a change right now and not further frustration about your current school.
In the meantime, complete 10th grade at you current school - only about 6 more months -and do a bit of reading on your own about anatomy and biology. You can go to the library and take out books on medical subjects. There are so many websites that can also familiarize you, too. Do not hesitate to do some study on your own.
Here's the best part. You can be involved with The Apprentice Doctor program for people your age. The link to their website is below. This program offers accredited on line courses, Simulation tools, Live training, and Doctor Kits for students like you interested in a medical career. There is a fee for their kits and I can't really see what the fee is for their courses, but you get a certificate of achievement for completing their courses which will be great for when you apply to undergraduate college. This option may be the best hands on one, but it will all depend upon what your family can help you out with. You can also think about getting a part time job to help with the costs.
Most of all, never give up. We all have to tolerate things that we may not be 100% pleased with so that is when you find other things that can support your plans. I hope that this has been a help and I wish you all the best !
WALDORF SCHOOL https://www.steiner.edu/what-is-a-waldorf-education/
MONTESSORI SCHOOL https://amshq.org/About-Montessori/What-Is-Montessori
THE APPRENTICE DOCTOR PROGRAM https://theapprenticedoctor.com/
I am happy to know that you are highly motivated to proceed with your career goal as a medical doctor ! That is wonderful and should be encouraged and nurtured and I would be happy to give you some advice. You can do it !
Of course, it goes without saying that high schools do not teach medicine, but most do teach biology and anatomy and chemistry. If your high school does not have these classes for their students, that is very disappointing. It sounds as though you may need to do something different but you have a choice of possibilities, so all is not lost.
Ask your parents if you could transfer to a different school for 11th and 12th grade. Ask if you could possibly go to a private high school for 11th and 12th grades. Also find out information about alternative schools like Montessori and Waldorf schools. Another possibility would be to do Home School through your district's Board of Education for which you would get a high school diploma. You should have your parent look into this because any of the things I mentioned would support your preparation for your interest in college. It would be a new experience for you but it does sound like you need a change right now and not further frustration about your current school.
In the meantime, complete 10th grade at you current school - only about 6 more months -and do a bit of reading on your own about anatomy and biology. You can go to the library and take out books on medical subjects. There are so many websites that can also familiarize you, too. Do not hesitate to do some study on your own.
Here's the best part. You can be involved with The Apprentice Doctor program for people your age. The link to their website is below. This program offers accredited on line courses, Simulation tools, Live training, and Doctor Kits for students like you interested in a medical career. There is a fee for their kits and I can't really see what the fee is for their courses, but you get a certificate of achievement for completing their courses which will be great for when you apply to undergraduate college. This option may be the best hands on one, but it will all depend upon what your family can help you out with. You can also think about getting a part time job to help with the costs.
Most of all, never give up. We all have to tolerate things that we may not be 100% pleased with so that is when you find other things that can support your plans. I hope that this has been a help and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
This was super helpful, thank you!
Shyanne
You are very welcome, Shyanne !
Michelle M.