Pre-med Bachelor's options?

Hi all! I'm a junior planning to pursue a pre-med Bachelor's degree, but I'm undecided on what I should major in. What are popular or recommended majors for pre-med students? Also, are there any colleges you recommend that have a strong focus on pre-med education?

Hello! It's great that you're considering a pre-med path. When it comes to choosing a major for pre-med, there is no "one-size-fits-all" answer. Medical schools generally do not have a preference for specific majors, as long as you complete all the required pre-med prerequisites (biology, chemistry, physics, calculus, etc.). That said, there are some popular majors among pre-med students that you can consider.

Common pre-med majors include:

1. Biology

2. Chemistry

3. Biochemistry

4. Neuroscience

5. Psychology

However, you are not limited to these majors. Some pre-med students major in humanities or social sciences (like English or anthropology) to stand out from typical applicants. What's important is that you choose a major that you're genuinely interested in and can excel in, while completing the necessary pre-med coursework.

As for colleges with strong pre-med programs, there are many options to choose from. Highly-ranked universities like Johns Hopkins, Stanford, Harvard, and the University of Pennsylvania have well-established pre-med advising programs and offer a plethora of research opportunities. Additionally, smaller liberal arts colleges like Swarthmore, Amherst, and Pomona excel in providing personalized and supportive pre-med advising. Ultimately, it's essential to consider other factors, like student life, location, and affordability, to find the best fit for you.

Keep in mind that your undergraduate institution does not solely determine your chances of getting into medical school. A strong GPA, MCAT scores, clinical experience, research, and letters of recommendation are also crucial components of a successful application. Good luck with your college search!