Pre-medical Student

I want to be a doctor, but I'm not sure what it means to be a pre-medical student. What sort of experiences should I focus on in high school and college to be considered a pre-med student?

Being a pre-medical student generally refers to the path one takes in college to prepare for admission into medical school. As a high school and college student, focusing on certain experiences and academics will help set you up for success in the pre-med track. Here's a breakdown of what you should focus on in high school and college:

High School:

1. Academics: Pursue a rigorous course load, including advanced science and math courses, such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Calculus, etc. Building a strong academic foundation in high school will help you transition smoothly into college-level science courses.

2. Extracurriculars: Join science-related clubs or activities (such as Science Olympiad, HOSA, or a science research program). You can also participate in internships or job-shadowing experiences in healthcare settings to gain exposure to the medical field. You can find some suggestions for specific programs and internships you might consider participating in on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/medical-internships-for-high-school-students/

3. Community service: Engage in volunteering activities, particularly in healthcare settings or community health outreach programs. Such experiences will showcase empathy and commitment to helping others.

4. Leadership: Seek leadership roles within clubs or organizations to demonstrate your ability to lead and work with others, which are essential skills for future physicians.

College:

1. Coursework: As a pre-med student, you'll be required to complete specific prerequisite courses for medical school admissions, typically including biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and sometimes biochemistry, psychology, and sociology. Maintain a competitive GPA, particularly in science courses .

2. Clinical experience: Gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings through internships, clinical shadowing, or volunteering opportunities. These experiences are crucial for demonstrating your passion for medicine and understanding the realities of working in healthcare.

3. Research: Participate in scientific research, either in a laboratory setting or through clinical research projects. Engaging in research demonstrates your ability to think critically, problem-solve, and apply what you've leaned in the classroom to the real world, which are all crucial skills for a future physician.

4. MCAT preparation: Study for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which is a required standardized test for medical school admissions. A high MCAT score will boost your chances of being accepted into medical school.

5. Extracurriculars and leadership: Continue to participate in extracurricular activities and leadership roles during college to showcase your well-roundedness and commitment to making a positive impact on your community.

In summary, focus on building a solid academic foundation in high school, and continue to pursue challenging courses, gain clinical experience, participate in research, and showcase leadership in college. Preparation, dedication, and a genuine interest in healthcare will set you on the right path to becoming a successful pre-medical student and eventually a doctor. Best of luck!