Choosing Colleges for Pre-Med Students

As a high school junior interested in pursuing a pre-med track, I'm curious about which colleges have strong pre-med programs. What should I consider when picking a school that will prepare me well for medical school?

When considering colleges with strong pre-med tracks, you'll want to look at a few critical factors:

1. Pre-Med Curriculum: Ensure the school offers the necessary course foundation for medical school, including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and social sciences.

2. Medical School Acceptance Rate: While not the end-all-be-all, med school acceptance rates can give an idea of how effectively a school's pre-med program prepares its students. Find out the rate at which graduates get accepted into accredited medical schools.

3. Research Opportunities: As a pre-med student, it's valuable to gain research experience. A school providing ample research opportunities showcases their commitment to science education.

4. Supportive Advising: Look for universities known for having effective pre-med advising services. Advisors will help you navigate the application process, select suitable coursework, and find volunteering and research opportunities.

5. Clinical Experience: Does the college have connections to local hospitals or clinics where you can gain hands-on experience?

6. MCAT Preparation: Consider how the university supports students in preparing for the MCAT, be it through rigorous coursework, test prep resources, or study groups.

7. Post-Bacc Programs: Some pre-med students choose to further enhance their credentials by pursuing a post-baccalaureate program. Schools that offer reputable post-bacc programs can provide an extra boost.

Remember, a school doesn't have to be an Ivy League to offer a fantastic pre-med program. Smaller liberal arts colleges and state schools can offer excellent preparation as well. As a tip, Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, and Northwestern, among others, are known for their strong pre-med programs.