UNC Pre-Med Experiences?

Any current or former UNC students here? I'm considering UNC for pre-med and was wondering how the program is in terms of support and opportunities. Share your experiences, please!

As someone familiar with UNC's pre-med program, I can provide some insights. UNC Chapel Hill is known for its strong pre-med program and its proximity to top-tier medical facilities, such as UNC Health Care and Duke University Hospital. Having these opportunities nearby allows for research, volunteering, and clinical experiences that are valuable for building a strong medical school application.

Coursework: To fulfill pre-med requirements, students usually choose a major in the natural sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry) or other related fields. However, you are not limited to these majors and can pursue any major as long as you complete the required pre-med courses. Pre-med advisors at UNC can help guide you through selecting a major and a course plan that suits your academic interests and needs.

Support: UNC offers pre-med advising through the Health Professions Advising Office (HPAO). They assist with course planning, extracurriculars, and preparing for medical school applications. There are also various student organizations dedicated to pre-health, such as the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) and the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students (MAPS).

Research: UNC is a research-intensive institution that offers many undergraduate research opportunities. You can apply for research positions as early as your freshman year. Check out the Office for Undergraduate Research (OUR) for information on finding, funding, and presenting research opportunities.

Shadowing/Clinical Experience: With UNC Health Care and other surrounding hospitals and clinics, there are ample opportunities for shadowing physicians, volunteering, and gaining clinical experience. Some students also opt to participate in local programs such as Student Health Action Coalition (SHAC) to provide healthcare services for underserved communities.

Overall, UNC Chapel Hill's pre-med program offers a well-rounded education, a supportive advising system, and numerous opportunities for research and extracurricular activities. Just keep in mind that, like any pre-med program, it can be rigorous and competitive. However, the blend of support and opportunities sets UNC apart and makes it an excellent choice for aspiring medical professionals.