7 answers
Prathiv
Student
Burlington, Massachusetts
7
Questions
Asked
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Help! I’m stuck between Med-School and Law, what do I go for?
I’m a freshman in high school, my GPA is 3.96 and straight A’s. I’m in a Medical Careers club and a Mock Trial club at my high school. This weekend I was in a Mock Trial as the defendant’s attorney in criminal proceedings(aggravated assault and battery charges for juvenile male, 17 tried as an adult) and I won! But I was also in a Paramedic crash-course, Neurology research camp, mock hematoma surgery in the cerebrum and I loved it too! I really like both professions now and I’m torn. Any ideas?
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7 answers
Katherine Arps, PMP, ACP, CSM
Program Manager
3
Answers
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
The thrill and joy of achieving something can often mask the challenging and emotionally taxing aspects of every career path. To illustrate this, let me share a personal story: My son completed his undergraduate studies in medicine before deciding to switch to Law school at Harvard. However, he soon discovered that law wasn't his cup of tea. He's now a practicing anesthesiologist and is thoroughly content with his career choice. I'm not attempting to influence your decision, but thought this example could provide a fresh perspective for you to consider your options. As you delve into your potential paths, ponder this: if money wasn't a concern, which career would you pursue without expecting any compensation? It seems like you're on the brink of an exciting journey, and I can't wait to see how your next phase unfolds.
Thanks for the perspective! My aim is Neurosurgery (focused on the brain), but a criminal defense attorney is law. I’ve been told by multiple teachers that I have the caliber for Ivy League, but as someone who has family in my dream college, do I meet the requirements?
Prathiv
And also, money is the only thing holding me back, but if given a couple million to invest I would choose Med-School!
Prathiv
I'm not sure about their current criteria. At the time they were hyper focused on well rounded students, ie.volunteer work, clubs, sports. They were not as concerned with the highest grades but you still had to make the threshold. Harvard isn't very generous with scholarships but there are others that are. I would put energy into seeing what others might have posted about getting into your schools of choice. Best of luck.
Katherine Arps, PMP, ACP, CSM
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Prathiv,
Exploring the Medical and Legal Professions: Making an Informed Decision
As a high school freshman with a strong academic record and involvement in both medical and legal extracurricular activities, it’s understandable that you are torn between pursuing a career in medicine or law. Both fields offer unique challenges, opportunities to help others, and the potential for a fulfilling career. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
Personal Interests and Passions
Reflect on your personal interests and passions. Consider the aspects of each field that resonate with you the most. For example, in medicine, you may be drawn to the intricacies of human anatomy, the prospect of diagnosing and treating patients, or the potential to conduct research in areas such as neurology. On the other hand, your participation in mock trial activities may have sparked an interest in legal advocacy, critical thinking, and the pursuit of justice within the legal system.
Career Exploration
Given your involvement in a Medical Careers club, participation in a Paramedic crash-course, and engagement in Neurology research camp, you have already taken proactive steps to explore the medical profession. Similarly, your role as a defendant’s attorney in a mock trial provides insight into the legal field. Consider seeking out additional opportunities for hands-on experience in both professions. This could involve shadowing physicians or lawyers, volunteering at hospitals or law firms, or participating in internships that provide exposure to various aspects of each profession.
Long-Term Career Prospects
Research the long-term career prospects within both fields. Explore the different specialties within medicine and law to gain a better understanding of the diverse career paths available. Consider factors such as work-life balance, earning potential, job stability, and opportunities for advancement within each profession.
Educational Pathways
Investigate the educational pathways required for both medicine and law. While both paths require rigorous academic preparation, they differ significantly in terms of undergraduate majors, professional degree programs (medical school or law school), residency or clerkship requirements, and licensing examinations. Understanding the educational commitments associated with each profession will help you make an informed decision.
Work-Life Balance and Personal Values
Consider how each profession aligns with your desired work-life balance and personal values. Reflect on the potential demands of a career in medicine, including long hours, patient care responsibilities, and emotional challenges. Similarly, evaluate how a legal career may impact your lifestyle and personal priorities.
Ultimately, making a decision between pursuing medicine or law requires careful consideration of your interests, values, and long-term aspirations. It’s important to gather information from reliable sources, seek guidance from mentors or professionals in both fields, and take time to reflect on your own strengths and passions before making a decision.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA provides comprehensive information about medical careers, educational requirements for physicians, and insights into various medical specialties.
American Bar Association (ABA): The ABA offers valuable resources for individuals considering a career in law, including information about law school admissions, legal practice areas, and professional development.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers detailed occupational outlooks for both physicians/surgeons and lawyers, providing data on job growth projections, median salaries, and key factors influencing each profession’s outlook.
These sources were utilized to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and based on authoritative sources within the medical and legal fields.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
James Constantine Frangos.
PS Go for both qualifications to become a medico-legal expert!
You want to succeed not fail!
Sigma student expenses US$500,000
Exploring the Medical and Legal Professions: Making an Informed Decision
As a high school freshman with a strong academic record and involvement in both medical and legal extracurricular activities, it’s understandable that you are torn between pursuing a career in medicine or law. Both fields offer unique challenges, opportunities to help others, and the potential for a fulfilling career. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
Personal Interests and Passions
Reflect on your personal interests and passions. Consider the aspects of each field that resonate with you the most. For example, in medicine, you may be drawn to the intricacies of human anatomy, the prospect of diagnosing and treating patients, or the potential to conduct research in areas such as neurology. On the other hand, your participation in mock trial activities may have sparked an interest in legal advocacy, critical thinking, and the pursuit of justice within the legal system.
Career Exploration
Given your involvement in a Medical Careers club, participation in a Paramedic crash-course, and engagement in Neurology research camp, you have already taken proactive steps to explore the medical profession. Similarly, your role as a defendant’s attorney in a mock trial provides insight into the legal field. Consider seeking out additional opportunities for hands-on experience in both professions. This could involve shadowing physicians or lawyers, volunteering at hospitals or law firms, or participating in internships that provide exposure to various aspects of each profession.
Long-Term Career Prospects
Research the long-term career prospects within both fields. Explore the different specialties within medicine and law to gain a better understanding of the diverse career paths available. Consider factors such as work-life balance, earning potential, job stability, and opportunities for advancement within each profession.
Educational Pathways
Investigate the educational pathways required for both medicine and law. While both paths require rigorous academic preparation, they differ significantly in terms of undergraduate majors, professional degree programs (medical school or law school), residency or clerkship requirements, and licensing examinations. Understanding the educational commitments associated with each profession will help you make an informed decision.
Work-Life Balance and Personal Values
Consider how each profession aligns with your desired work-life balance and personal values. Reflect on the potential demands of a career in medicine, including long hours, patient care responsibilities, and emotional challenges. Similarly, evaluate how a legal career may impact your lifestyle and personal priorities.
Ultimately, making a decision between pursuing medicine or law requires careful consideration of your interests, values, and long-term aspirations. It’s important to gather information from reliable sources, seek guidance from mentors or professionals in both fields, and take time to reflect on your own strengths and passions before making a decision.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA provides comprehensive information about medical careers, educational requirements for physicians, and insights into various medical specialties.
American Bar Association (ABA): The ABA offers valuable resources for individuals considering a career in law, including information about law school admissions, legal practice areas, and professional development.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers detailed occupational outlooks for both physicians/surgeons and lawyers, providing data on job growth projections, median salaries, and key factors influencing each profession’s outlook.
These sources were utilized to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date, and based on authoritative sources within the medical and legal fields.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
James Constantine Frangos.
PS Go for both qualifications to become a medico-legal expert!
You want to succeed not fail!
Sigma student expenses US$500,000
Thank you so much! Now I’ll finally decide, thanks for the insight Mr. Frangos!
Prathiv
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Prathiv !
I want to reassure you as you can probably guess, as a freshman, maybe you're really not "torn". You have a combination of two fantastic interests that you're learning a great deal from and excelling at. This may not be the time to narrow it down to only one. I think you're on the right track with what you are doing and my advice is to continue with it. Go through all of high school with what you are involved in now and spend the time learning and enjoying each moment.
In the beginning of your senior year, you will be able to tell which career you'd like to go for. If you choose Law, you can be a Medical Lawyer, Patent Lawyer for medical equipment, work with Policy or work with Pharmaceutical companies. You can do Medical Legal Counsel, become a Medical Paralegal, Health Care Administrator, or a Regulatory Specialist.
My advice is to give it more time and see where it brings you. The work and activity that you are doing now is a great benefit for you and you should focus on that till you personally know for sure in a couple of years, what you really would prefer to do. Explore the various careers that blend both subjects by reading on line and see if you need to give up one or not. You may be able to follow this dual path for college some way, not necessarily go to law and medical school at the same time, but there is a way to combine these two fields and maybe that is where your niche is. It will become clearer to you as you begin your senior year, so do not worry. For now, keep doing what you're doing and enjoy both activities. You'll know the right time to pick and choose or blend both interests for an exciting career that you will love.
Best wishes to you !
I want to reassure you as you can probably guess, as a freshman, maybe you're really not "torn". You have a combination of two fantastic interests that you're learning a great deal from and excelling at. This may not be the time to narrow it down to only one. I think you're on the right track with what you are doing and my advice is to continue with it. Go through all of high school with what you are involved in now and spend the time learning and enjoying each moment.
In the beginning of your senior year, you will be able to tell which career you'd like to go for. If you choose Law, you can be a Medical Lawyer, Patent Lawyer for medical equipment, work with Policy or work with Pharmaceutical companies. You can do Medical Legal Counsel, become a Medical Paralegal, Health Care Administrator, or a Regulatory Specialist.
My advice is to give it more time and see where it brings you. The work and activity that you are doing now is a great benefit for you and you should focus on that till you personally know for sure in a couple of years, what you really would prefer to do. Explore the various careers that blend both subjects by reading on line and see if you need to give up one or not. You may be able to follow this dual path for college some way, not necessarily go to law and medical school at the same time, but there is a way to combine these two fields and maybe that is where your niche is. It will become clearer to you as you begin your senior year, so do not worry. For now, keep doing what you're doing and enjoy both activities. You'll know the right time to pick and choose or blend both interests for an exciting career that you will love.
Best wishes to you !
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
500
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Sounds like you have quite the decision before you. Both professions can be very rewarding.
Close your eyes and imagine you are getting a lifetime achievement award for your chosen profession. What do you imagine the person introducing you is saying about what you have done in your field? What did you do in this scenario that gave you pride in your work.
Thinking positive thoughts as you make this huge decision for your life!
Close your eyes and imagine you are getting a lifetime achievement award for your chosen profession. What do you imagine the person introducing you is saying about what you have done in your field? What did you do in this scenario that gave you pride in your work.
Thinking positive thoughts as you make this huge decision for your life!
Karin P.
Lecturer
378
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Prathiv,
That's an interesting problem to have, but in a way a good problem to have. You seem super talented and will certainly make your way no matter what you decide to do.
Have you thought about the specialty you would want to do as a doctor? In which role would you see yourself if you went into law? I would look to do some internships or job shadowing for both professions to see what the day-to-day work is like.
Both are of course about helping people. Being a doctor, especially a surgeon, is more about immediate help, relieving someone's pain or saving someone's life. And it's very active (often hectic), you are DOING something. Being a lawyer is more long-term. It takes time before something goes to trial. And you'll be reading lots of documents. So, it's not as active. Which role would suit you better?
Your talent being persuasive and presenting an argument is of course great for a lawyer, but it would also be great as a doctor when you need to advocate for someone/something. If you have a special cause you could be an excellent activist in the medical field.
You can acquire knowledge of relevant laws in the medical field on the side while you train to be a doctor. As an expert witness or a medical examiner that would be beneficial. If you become a lawyer, you can't do brain surgery on the side.
There are some career options that combine medicine and law, either with a focus on the medical side or on the law side). You find more information here:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/jobs-in-medical-law
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/medical-lawyer-job-description.
https://medicfootprints.org/a-guide-to-a-medico-legal-career-for-doctors/
https://www.proquest.com/docview/1786269819?sourcetype=Scholarly%20Journals
I hope this helps and gives you some things to think about. But you also still have time before you have to decide, and you already seem well prepared for either career with your extracurriculars.
Good luck on your journey!
KP
That's an interesting problem to have, but in a way a good problem to have. You seem super talented and will certainly make your way no matter what you decide to do.
Have you thought about the specialty you would want to do as a doctor? In which role would you see yourself if you went into law? I would look to do some internships or job shadowing for both professions to see what the day-to-day work is like.
Both are of course about helping people. Being a doctor, especially a surgeon, is more about immediate help, relieving someone's pain or saving someone's life. And it's very active (often hectic), you are DOING something. Being a lawyer is more long-term. It takes time before something goes to trial. And you'll be reading lots of documents. So, it's not as active. Which role would suit you better?
Your talent being persuasive and presenting an argument is of course great for a lawyer, but it would also be great as a doctor when you need to advocate for someone/something. If you have a special cause you could be an excellent activist in the medical field.
You can acquire knowledge of relevant laws in the medical field on the side while you train to be a doctor. As an expert witness or a medical examiner that would be beneficial. If you become a lawyer, you can't do brain surgery on the side.
There are some career options that combine medicine and law, either with a focus on the medical side or on the law side). You find more information here:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/jobs-in-medical-law
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/medical-lawyer-job-description.
https://medicfootprints.org/a-guide-to-a-medico-legal-career-for-doctors/
https://www.proquest.com/docview/1786269819?sourcetype=Scholarly%20Journals
I hope this helps and gives you some things to think about. But you also still have time before you have to decide, and you already seem well prepared for either career with your extracurriculars.
Good luck on your journey!
KP
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Prathiv , I want to first thank you for reaching out and asking your questions regarding your passion and achievements in both the medical and legal fields. I hope the information that I have below provides you some insight and/or help.
Your impressive GPA of 3.96, coupled with your active participation in the Medical Careers and Mock Trial clubs, clearly demonstrates your commitment to pursuing diverse interests. Your victory as the defense attorney in a Mock Trial concerning severe assault and battery charges is a notable achievement, highlighting your proficiency in legal matters. Your involvement in a Paramedic crash-course, a Neurology research camp, and a mock hematoma surgery in the cerebrum is equally admirable, indicating your strong interest and potential in the medical field.
Navigating success in both domains can undeniably present a difficult choice. To aid in your decision-making process, I suggest you ponder your long-term objectives, personal values, and the elements of each profession that truly connect with you. Consulting with your guidance counselors about the steps you need to take in high school to excel in either or both of these professions could also be valuable.
Consider seeking opportunities to shadow professionals in both areas or to participate in internships for hands-on experience. It would also be beneficial to obtain advice from mentors, professionals, or individuals who have embarked on careers in medicine and law, as they can provide insights into the daily realities of each profession. Remember, it's perfectly acceptable to attend both medical and law school, as every doctor could benefit from a lawyer who truly comprehends their profession.
Prathiv, it's important to note that you're still at the beginning of your journey. Your dedication and enthusiasm are praiseworthy. Invest time in exploration and self-discovery to find what genuinely aligns with your goals. Seek guidance from professionals in the field as well as from your counselors.
Your impressive GPA of 3.96, coupled with your active participation in the Medical Careers and Mock Trial clubs, clearly demonstrates your commitment to pursuing diverse interests. Your victory as the defense attorney in a Mock Trial concerning severe assault and battery charges is a notable achievement, highlighting your proficiency in legal matters. Your involvement in a Paramedic crash-course, a Neurology research camp, and a mock hematoma surgery in the cerebrum is equally admirable, indicating your strong interest and potential in the medical field.
Navigating success in both domains can undeniably present a difficult choice. To aid in your decision-making process, I suggest you ponder your long-term objectives, personal values, and the elements of each profession that truly connect with you. Consulting with your guidance counselors about the steps you need to take in high school to excel in either or both of these professions could also be valuable.
Consider seeking opportunities to shadow professionals in both areas or to participate in internships for hands-on experience. It would also be beneficial to obtain advice from mentors, professionals, or individuals who have embarked on careers in medicine and law, as they can provide insights into the daily realities of each profession. Remember, it's perfectly acceptable to attend both medical and law school, as every doctor could benefit from a lawyer who truly comprehends their profession.
Prathiv, it's important to note that you're still at the beginning of your journey. Your dedication and enthusiasm are praiseworthy. Invest time in exploration and self-discovery to find what genuinely aligns with your goals. Seek guidance from professionals in the field as well as from your counselors.
Michel Davis
Medical student
171
Answers
Cranston, Rhode Island
Updated
Michel’s Answer
It is nice that you have options and this is something important to keep open at your age. Just because you like both careers does not mean that you only get to have one. Medical doctors can go into fields and work towards policy change. Likewise medical doctors can go get a law degree and make changes in other directions. I would suggest you keep your grades up and keep doing what you like and see where these paths take you. Both will require good grades and getting into a good school. With your extra activities that you are doing you are setting yourself up for a good position and the ability to get into a good school. Take time and continue with both activities and see if one presents itself as better for you over time.