2 answers
Chloe
Student
Darien, Wisconsin
1
Question
Asked
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How do I become a neurosurgeon?
As a middle school student, I have been wanting to become a neurosurgeon for a long time. It is a strong desire of mine to help others. I am taking as many classes related to this career as I can once I get to high school, but I don't know what else I can do.
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2 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Chloe,
Neurosurgery is one of the most demanding medical careers. You can expect 17 or 18 years of schooling and training.
You first need to earn a bachelors degree, take the MCAT before you can apply to medical school. You have 4 years of medical school. To become a neurosurgeon, you need one year of internship and 7 to 8 years of residency. Many opt to take on a fellowship for further specialization after that. I have attached a link with more detailed information.
What you can do NOW to put yourself in a good position is to have a very good GPA, take AP classes in sciences, volunteer or shadow in a medical setting, i.e. with a doctor or in a hospital, take on some other extracurriculars that will demonstrate your dedication for medicine or leadership potential, etc.
The admission criteria and pre-requisites courses that you need to take during your undergrad are a bit different for each school, so make sure you look up current information for schools you would consider. Work with the admission people.
I hope this helps! Good luck on your path!
KP
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/careers/what-does-a-neurosurgeon-do
Neurosurgery is one of the most demanding medical careers. You can expect 17 or 18 years of schooling and training.
You first need to earn a bachelors degree, take the MCAT before you can apply to medical school. You have 4 years of medical school. To become a neurosurgeon, you need one year of internship and 7 to 8 years of residency. Many opt to take on a fellowship for further specialization after that. I have attached a link with more detailed information.
What you can do NOW to put yourself in a good position is to have a very good GPA, take AP classes in sciences, volunteer or shadow in a medical setting, i.e. with a doctor or in a hospital, take on some other extracurriculars that will demonstrate your dedication for medicine or leadership potential, etc.
The admission criteria and pre-requisites courses that you need to take during your undergrad are a bit different for each school, so make sure you look up current information for schools you would consider. Work with the admission people.
I hope this helps! Good luck on your path!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Carl Manson Jr., PMP
5G Program Manager - Verizon
97
Answers
Stone Mountain, Georgia
Updated
Carl’s Answer
Hello Chloe. It's great that at your age, you've already decided on a career path. My advice would be to continue to take classes in math and science. Always strive to take advanced level and AP classes. Work hard to make good grades. This will put you in a position to get in a good school, where you can pursue a major pre-med curriculum that will prepare you for a career in medicine. You still have a very long way to go but it sounds like you are on the right path. Continue to enjoy your childhood and make good grades. This will put you in the best position possible to pursue your passion of being a neurosurgeon.
Thank you for taking the time to answer my question, Carl. I will do as you suggested.
Chloe