5 answers
Kamiya
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
364 views
How can I prepare myself for my future in medicine and in college?
As an African American woman aspiring to be a cardiothoracic surgeon, what are some struggles I should prepare myself for before going off to college and in the work field?
Login to comment
5 answers
James Christopher
Physical Therapy Intern
1
Answer
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Updated
James’s Answer
Being able to balance school and your social life can be challenging at times, but always put school first. Also stay on top of your chemistry classes, they are usually the toughest subjects.
Aidan Niskar
Client Communications
3
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aidan’s Answer
Always remember, mastering time management and developing effective study habits are key to success. Stay upbeat and optimistic, it will always be a powerful ally on your journey.
Caleb Edwards M.D.
Resident Physician, General Surgery
1
Answer
Aurora, Colorado
Updated
Caleb’s Answer
I am an African American General Surgery resident and my best advice is that you'll need mentors and sponsors along your journey. The best way to get those is to develop yourself into a worthwhile person who can contribute to medicine and whatever those people want and they will favorably speak on your behalf. At this juncture, be sure to try developing effective habits that'll last you a lifetime and will be key to your success. As long people see you are and can do the work, you'll be unlikely to see many challenges your way but if you cannot, then things may begin to spiral in a negative direction. But be a team player and a person who is reliable and a joy to be around both academically, professionally, and personally and you'll be on your way to greatness.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5265
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kamiya,
Preparing for a Future in Medicine and College as an Aspiring Cardiothoracic Surgeon
To prepare yourself for a future in medicine and college, especially with the goal of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon, there are several key steps you can take to set yourself up for success. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead:
1. Academic Preparation:
Focus on excelling in your high school coursework, particularly in science and math subjects. Building a strong foundation in these areas will be crucial for success in college and medical school.
Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses to challenge yourself academically and demonstrate your readiness for college-level work.
Seek out opportunities for hands-on experience in healthcare settings through internships, volunteer work, or shadowing experiences. This will give you valuable insight into the field of medicine and help you confirm your career goals.
2. Extracurricular Involvement:
Get involved in extracurricular activities that showcase your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and commitment to service. Colleges and medical schools look for well-rounded candidates who can balance academics with other pursuits.
Consider joining pre-medical clubs or organizations to connect with like-minded peers and gain access to resources and support tailored to aspiring healthcare professionals.
Pursue research opportunities if possible, as research experience can strengthen your medical school applications and provide valuable skills for a career in medicine.
3. Mentoring and Networking:
Seek out mentors within the medical field who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your academic and career path. Mentors can provide valuable insights based on their own experiences.
Attend networking events, conferences, or workshops related to healthcare or medicine to expand your professional network and learn from experts in the field.
Consider reaching out to African American women who are already practicing cardiothoracic surgeons or are further along in their medical careers for mentorship and advice specific to your goals.
4. Financial Planning:
Research scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting underrepresented minority students pursuing careers in medicine. Financial considerations can be a significant factor in pursuing higher education and training.
Familiarize yourself with financial aid options available for college and medical school, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Planning ahead can help alleviate financial stress during your educational journey.
Struggles to Prepare For: As an African American woman aspiring to be a cardiothoracic surgeon, it’s important to acknowledge potential challenges you may face along the way:
Underrepresentation: The field of cardiothoracic surgery is historically dominated by white males, so breaking into this specialty as a woman of color may present unique obstacles related to bias or lack of representation.
Implicit Bias: You may encounter implicit biases based on gender or race throughout your academic and professional journey. It’s essential to develop resilience strategies and seek out supportive communities that understand these challenges.
Work-Life Balance: Cardiothoracic surgery is known for its demanding nature, requiring long hours and intense focus. Balancing the demands of a surgical career with personal life commitments can be challenging but achievable with proper support systems in place.
By proactively addressing these struggles through preparation, mentorship, networking, academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, financial planning, and resilience-building strategies, you can position yourself for success as you pursue your dream of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC provides valuable resources for aspiring medical students regarding admissions requirements, diversity initiatives, financial aid information, and support services aimed at underrepresented minority students.
American College of Surgeons (ACS): ACS offers insights into the field of surgery, including cardiothoracic surgery trends, professional development opportunities for surgeons-in-training, mentorship programs, and diversity initiatives within the surgical community.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH resources include information on research opportunities for undergraduate students interested in health sciences careers, funding opportunities for minority researchers pursuing biomedical research careers, and data on diversity in the biomedical workforce.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information on academic preparation strategies for aspiring healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds like yours.
GOD BLESS, JAMES.
Preparing for a Future in Medicine and College as an Aspiring Cardiothoracic Surgeon
To prepare yourself for a future in medicine and college, especially with the goal of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon, there are several key steps you can take to set yourself up for success. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead:
1. Academic Preparation:
Focus on excelling in your high school coursework, particularly in science and math subjects. Building a strong foundation in these areas will be crucial for success in college and medical school.
Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses to challenge yourself academically and demonstrate your readiness for college-level work.
Seek out opportunities for hands-on experience in healthcare settings through internships, volunteer work, or shadowing experiences. This will give you valuable insight into the field of medicine and help you confirm your career goals.
2. Extracurricular Involvement:
Get involved in extracurricular activities that showcase your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and commitment to service. Colleges and medical schools look for well-rounded candidates who can balance academics with other pursuits.
Consider joining pre-medical clubs or organizations to connect with like-minded peers and gain access to resources and support tailored to aspiring healthcare professionals.
Pursue research opportunities if possible, as research experience can strengthen your medical school applications and provide valuable skills for a career in medicine.
3. Mentoring and Networking:
Seek out mentors within the medical field who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your academic and career path. Mentors can provide valuable insights based on their own experiences.
Attend networking events, conferences, or workshops related to healthcare or medicine to expand your professional network and learn from experts in the field.
Consider reaching out to African American women who are already practicing cardiothoracic surgeons or are further along in their medical careers for mentorship and advice specific to your goals.
4. Financial Planning:
Research scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting underrepresented minority students pursuing careers in medicine. Financial considerations can be a significant factor in pursuing higher education and training.
Familiarize yourself with financial aid options available for college and medical school, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Planning ahead can help alleviate financial stress during your educational journey.
Struggles to Prepare For: As an African American woman aspiring to be a cardiothoracic surgeon, it’s important to acknowledge potential challenges you may face along the way:
Underrepresentation: The field of cardiothoracic surgery is historically dominated by white males, so breaking into this specialty as a woman of color may present unique obstacles related to bias or lack of representation.
Implicit Bias: You may encounter implicit biases based on gender or race throughout your academic and professional journey. It’s essential to develop resilience strategies and seek out supportive communities that understand these challenges.
Work-Life Balance: Cardiothoracic surgery is known for its demanding nature, requiring long hours and intense focus. Balancing the demands of a surgical career with personal life commitments can be challenging but achievable with proper support systems in place.
By proactively addressing these struggles through preparation, mentorship, networking, academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, financial planning, and resilience-building strategies, you can position yourself for success as you pursue your dream of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC provides valuable resources for aspiring medical students regarding admissions requirements, diversity initiatives, financial aid information, and support services aimed at underrepresented minority students.
American College of Surgeons (ACS): ACS offers insights into the field of surgery, including cardiothoracic surgery trends, professional development opportunities for surgeons-in-training, mentorship programs, and diversity initiatives within the surgical community.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH resources include information on research opportunities for undergraduate students interested in health sciences careers, funding opportunities for minority researchers pursuing biomedical research careers, and data on diversity in the biomedical workforce.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information on academic preparation strategies for aspiring healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds like yours.
GOD BLESS, JAMES.
Karissa Helton
Teacher
170
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
Not being able to spend time with a significant other. Family will wait but a boyfriend/girlfriend will feel like you are selfish with your time. I would recommend waiting until you are done with your residency to have a serious relationship.
Hey Karissa, this is a super valid point! Do you have any suggestions on how to navigate that situation?
Gurpreet Lally, Admin