UPenn Pre-Med: What to Expect?

Hey everyone! I'm a junior and super interested in pursuing pre-med at UPenn. Can anyone share their experience at UPenn as a pre-med student? What should I be prepared for in terms of academics, research opportunities, and extracurriculars?

Hello! It's great to hear that you're interested in pursuing pre-med at UPenn. While I can't share personal experiences, I can give you an overview of what to expect as a pre-med student at UPenn in terms of academics, research opportunities, and extracurriculars.

Academics: As a pre-med student, you'll need to fulfill the necessary coursework for medical school admissions, which typically includes biology, chemistry, physics, and math. UPenn has strong programs in these subjects, and you'll have access to rigorous courses that will not only prepare you for the MCAT but also enable you to excel in your chosen major. Bear in mind that competition can be intense, and you'll be expected to maintain a high GPA to be a competitive applicant for medical school. Time management skills are crucial, especially given the demanding nature of pre-med courses.

Research Opportunities: UPenn is renowned for its research facilities and opportunities. Through programs like the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF), you can connect with faculty members and find research projects that match your interests. This can be a great way to gain valuable experience, learn research-related skills, and build relationships with faculty who can write strong recommendation letters for your medical school applications.

Extracurriculars: UPenn offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that cater to pre-med students and healthcare enthusiasts, such as the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) and American Medical Student Association (AMSA). By participating in these clubs, and others like them, you can learn more about the healthcare field, develop teamwork and leadership skills, and make connections with like-minded peers. Additionally, you can seek out volunteering opportunities at hospitals or community clinics to gain hands-on experience and demonstrate your commitment to medicine.

It's essential to find a balance between your academic pursuits, research, and extracurricular activities. While your coursework will undoubtedly be a top priority, don't forget to make time to explore research and extracurricular pursuits that genuinely interest you, as they can make your journey as a pre-med student both rewarding and fulfilling.

Best of luck with your pre-med journey at UPenn!