2 answers
Archie
Student
1
Question
2 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1352
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Archie to prepare for a pre-med major, may I suggest you start by taking the right courses in high school. I recommend taking classes in the sciences, such as physics and chemistry; math, including calculus and statistics; and even English. Pursue a rigorous combination of AP, Honors or IB courses and strive for the highest grades possible.
It’s important to note here that although your college may accept AP credit, medical schools may not. If you are pursuing a medical career, take the college course and pass up the AP credit. Not only will this college level course look better on your pre-med admissions application, but it will also prepare you for the MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) and medical school classes.
Next, look for a high school summer medical program. These programs will give you exposure to the world of medicine and also the opportunity to work with medical professionals. Colleges such as Stanford, University of Pennsylvania, Georgetownand many others offer summer programs that introduce students to the medical field. Some hospitals, such as Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, also offer summer internships or research opportunities for high school students.
High school medical summer programs offer learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom. Many include hands-on lab training. For instance, the Pre-Med Institute at the University of Texas at Austin allows students to study anatomy by handling real human remains and soft tissue specimens. Students also learn how to examine MRIs, X-rays, and CTs. If you are looking at summer medical programs, consider who is teaching the classes and whether it includes opportunities to be in the lab or even do your own research.
If you like what you experience at one of these pre-med summer programs, it is a good indicator that you are on the right track toward a career in medicine Archie.
It’s important to note here that although your college may accept AP credit, medical schools may not. If you are pursuing a medical career, take the college course and pass up the AP credit. Not only will this college level course look better on your pre-med admissions application, but it will also prepare you for the MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) and medical school classes.
Next, look for a high school summer medical program. These programs will give you exposure to the world of medicine and also the opportunity to work with medical professionals. Colleges such as Stanford, University of Pennsylvania, Georgetownand many others offer summer programs that introduce students to the medical field. Some hospitals, such as Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, also offer summer internships or research opportunities for high school students.
High school medical summer programs offer learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom. Many include hands-on lab training. For instance, the Pre-Med Institute at the University of Texas at Austin allows students to study anatomy by handling real human remains and soft tissue specimens. Students also learn how to examine MRIs, X-rays, and CTs. If you are looking at summer medical programs, consider who is teaching the classes and whether it includes opportunities to be in the lab or even do your own research.
If you like what you experience at one of these pre-med summer programs, it is a good indicator that you are on the right track toward a career in medicine Archie.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3851
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Archie,
Embarking on the Journey to Becoming a Doctor
The path to becoming a doctor, while demanding, is a gratifying one that calls for commitment, diligence, and a fervor for aiding others. Here's a simplified roadmap to guide you on your journey to becoming a doctor:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Kick-start your journey by securing a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Although there's no mandated major for medical school, most students opt for biology, chemistry, or a related field to meet the pre-medical course prerequisites.
2. Sit for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): As a prospective medical student in the United States, you'll need to take the MCAT exam. This standardized test evaluates your understanding of scientific principles, critical thinking prowess, and problem-solving capabilities.
3. Enroll in Medical School: Once you've bagged a bachelor’s degree and scored competitively on the MCAT, it's time to apply to medical school. Typically, medical school spans four years, combining classroom learning, laboratory tasks, and clinical rotations.
4. Undertake Residency Training: Following graduation from medical school, you'll need to complete residency training in your chosen specialty. Residency programs offer practical experience in a clinical environment, guided by seasoned physicians.
5. Secure Licensure: To legally practice medicine, you must acquire a medical license from the state you intend to work in. Although licensure prerequisites differ by state, they generally involve passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA).
6. Explore Specialization: Post-residency and licensure, some doctors opt to specialize further via fellowship programs. Specialization enables doctors to concentrate on a specific medical field, like cardiology, pediatrics, or surgery.
7. Uphold Certification and Pursue Continuing Education: To remain up-to-date in their specialty and retain licensure, doctors must engage in continuing education endeavors and regularly renew their certifications.
In summary, the journey to becoming a doctor demands years of education, training, and dedication. It is a demanding yet rewarding career choice for those with a passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Consulted:
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC offers invaluable resources and information for those keen on a medical career, including guidance on the medical school application process and educational prerequisites.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides comprehensive information on the job prospects, earning potential, and educational requirements for various healthcare professions, including physicians and surgeons.
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA is a representative body for physicians across the United States. Their website provides insights into the medical profession, advocacy initiatives, and resources for aspiring doctors.
God bless you on your journey!
James Constantine Frangos
Embarking on the Journey to Becoming a Doctor
The path to becoming a doctor, while demanding, is a gratifying one that calls for commitment, diligence, and a fervor for aiding others. Here's a simplified roadmap to guide you on your journey to becoming a doctor:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Kick-start your journey by securing a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Although there's no mandated major for medical school, most students opt for biology, chemistry, or a related field to meet the pre-medical course prerequisites.
2. Sit for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): As a prospective medical student in the United States, you'll need to take the MCAT exam. This standardized test evaluates your understanding of scientific principles, critical thinking prowess, and problem-solving capabilities.
3. Enroll in Medical School: Once you've bagged a bachelor’s degree and scored competitively on the MCAT, it's time to apply to medical school. Typically, medical school spans four years, combining classroom learning, laboratory tasks, and clinical rotations.
4. Undertake Residency Training: Following graduation from medical school, you'll need to complete residency training in your chosen specialty. Residency programs offer practical experience in a clinical environment, guided by seasoned physicians.
5. Secure Licensure: To legally practice medicine, you must acquire a medical license from the state you intend to work in. Although licensure prerequisites differ by state, they generally involve passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA).
6. Explore Specialization: Post-residency and licensure, some doctors opt to specialize further via fellowship programs. Specialization enables doctors to concentrate on a specific medical field, like cardiology, pediatrics, or surgery.
7. Uphold Certification and Pursue Continuing Education: To remain up-to-date in their specialty and retain licensure, doctors must engage in continuing education endeavors and regularly renew their certifications.
In summary, the journey to becoming a doctor demands years of education, training, and dedication. It is a demanding yet rewarding career choice for those with a passion for healthcare and a commitment to serving others.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Consulted:
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC offers invaluable resources and information for those keen on a medical career, including guidance on the medical school application process and educational prerequisites.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides comprehensive information on the job prospects, earning potential, and educational requirements for various healthcare professions, including physicians and surgeons.
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA is a representative body for physicians across the United States. Their website provides insights into the medical profession, advocacy initiatives, and resources for aspiring doctors.
God bless you on your journey!
James Constantine Frangos