Requirements for medical school?

Okay, so I know I'm just a junior but I'm already freakin' out about medical school. I wanna get prepared and figure out what I should be doing while still in high school. What are the general requirements or prerequisites for applying to medical school? Any advice on how to get a head start would be amazing!

Firstly, don't panic! It's great that you're thinking ahead about your potential future in medical school. While you're still in high school, there are some things you can focus on in preparation for the journey ahead.

1. Academics: Medical schools often require strong science and math foundations, so be sure to take challenging courses in these areas, such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and AP Calculus. Doing well in these courses will not only boost your college application but also help you build a solid foundation for future pre-med coursework in college.

2. Extracurriculars: Get involved in activities that relate to medicine or healthcare, such as volunteering at a hospital, shadowing a doctor, or participating in a health-related club. You can also consider science research opportunities or participating in science fairs. These experiences will demonstrate your interest in medicine and help you gain valuable insight into the field.

3. College selection: When applying to colleges, be sure to research their pre-med programs and the resources they offer for pre-med students, such as advising, research opportunities, and medical school acceptance rates. Opt for a college with a strong pre-med program where you can gain support and make connections with other pre-med students.

Once you're in college, the primary requirements to apply for medical school will be the completion of prerequisite courses, taking the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test), and obtaining strong letters of recommendation. It's crucial to maintain a high GPA, especially in your science courses, as medical schools are highly competitive.

Prerequisite courses for medical schools might slightly vary, but they usually include:

- General Biology (1-2 years, with labs)

- General Chemistry (1-2 years, with labs)

- Organic Chemistry (1 year, with labs)

- Physics (1-2 years, with labs)

- Biochemistry (1 semester or 1 year)

- Mathematics, typically Calculus and/or Statistics (1 year)

- English (1 year)

Finally, in addition to academics and extracurriculars, keep building your professional network by fostering relationships with professors, researchers, and medical professionals throughout college. This will help you gain insights into the industry and obtain strong letters of recommendation.

Best of luck on your pre-med journey!