Hey everyone! I've been hearing a lot about 'pre-med' lately, but I'm not exactly sure what it is. Is it a major or just a bunch of requirements? Can someone pls clarify this for me?
Hello! Great question. "Pre-med" is not a specific major but rather a term used to describe a student's intention and track of preparing for a career in medicine. It is a set of common prerequisites and experiences that many medical schools require in order to apply for admission. Pre-med students can major in any field, as long as they complete the necessary pre-med coursework alongside their chosen major.
The pre-med track generally includes completing a set of required courses, such as general and organic chemistry, biology, physics, and sometimes subjects like biochemistry and statistics or calculus. Additionally, pre-med students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities like volunteering, clinical shadowing, research, and any opportunities that demonstrate a commitment to medicine.
As you decide on your major, keep in mind that medical schools value well-rounded applicants, so choosing a major that genuinely interests you and allows you to excel academically is important. Furthermore, while it's common for many pre-med students to choose science majors like biology or chemistry, pursuing a major outside of the sciences can make you stand out in the competitive medical school application process, provided you maintain a strong GPA and complete the required pre-med coursework.
I hope this helps clear up what pre-med means!
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