Medical schools in the US?

Hey there! I'm thinking ahead (I know I'm only a junior) but I'd like to start researching medical schools in the United States. What are some of the best medical schools, in terms of rankings, programs offered, and campus life? Any tips to help with my research are much appreciated!

Hi! It's never too early to start researching and preparing for your future goals. The United States has an extensive range of medical schools, and it's great that you're considering multiple factors like rankings, programs, and campus life.

Rankings can be a helpful starting point, but remember that fit is crucial too. Some top-ranked medical schools include:

1. Harvard University

2. Stanford University

3. Johns Hopkins University

4. University of California--San Francisco

5. University of Pennsylvania (Perelman)

6. Columbia University

7. Duke University

8. Washington University in St. Louis

9. University of Michigan--Ann Arbor

10. Yale University

Programs offered will vary by each school, so it's essential to delve into the curriculum and specific offerings. For instance, some schools may have strong research programs, others might excel in primary care education or offer dual-degree programs (MD/PhD, MD/MBA, MD/MPH). Make a list of your interests and see which schools align with them.

As for campus life, this will also differ per school. To get a feel for the environment, try to visit campuses and speak with current students or alumni. You can also glean insights from various forums, social media platforms, or other online resources. Think about factors like location, size, diversity, student life, facilities, and support services when evaluating campus life.

In terms of next steps for your research, start by visiting the schools' websites to learn more about their programs, facilities, and missions. Look for admission statistics and requirements to gauge where your GPA, MCAT, etc. need to be. Additionally, consider reaching out to your high school counselor for guidance or assistance in finding resources specific to medical school admissions.

As a junior in high school, focus on maintaining a high GPA and pursuing relevant extracurricular activities (research work, volunteering, internships). If you’re unsure how to bolster your resume, you can find a range of reputable summer programs and internships related to medicine on CollegeVine’s blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/medical-internships-for-high-school-students.

Good luck with your research, and I hope this information serves as a helpful starting point in your quest for the right medical school!