UCLA Premed Program

Hey y'all, I'm a junior and I've been considering applying to UCLA's premed program. Can anyone share their experience or knowledge about what it's like? I'd love to hear more about research/internship opportunities and overall vibe!

Hi there! While UCLA doesn't have a specific "pre-med" program or major, I can share some insights on the informal "pre-med track" at UCLA.

Research Opportunities: UCLA offers extensive research opportunities in various fields, from basic sciences to clinical settings. Being part of a large research university, you'll find many opportunities to work with faculty and graduate students on projects. Additionally, there are research programs such as the UCLA Undergraduate Research Center for the Sciences (URC-Sciences) that support and fund undergraduate research commitments.

Internship Opportunities: Due to its location in Los Angeles, UCLA is situated near several major hospitals like the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai, which can provide excellent internships and job opportunities for premed students. Some premed students also engage in volunteering and clinical experiences through the UCLA Care Extender program or UCLA Health's volunteer opportunities.

Overall Vibe: UCLA is a highly competitive institution, so the premed track can also be quite competitive. However, many students say that the atmosphere is collaborative rather than cutthroat. You'll likely find a supportive environment with peers that are both ambitious and helpful. Since UCLA is a large university (with over 30,000 undergraduate students), maintain an open mind and proactive approach as you navigate through your premed experience – it will be up to you to find opportunities and make connections.

In summary, UCLA offers extensive research and internship opportunities, and the overall vibe is collaborative and supportive. However, it's important to be proactive in seeking opportunities and networking with other students and faculty. Keep in mind that the challenges you face in a competitive program like UCLA's premed track will help you develop skills and resilience that will be invaluable during medical school and beyond. Good luck!