Path to becoming a doctor in the US?

Hey everyone! So I'm a high school junior, and I really want to be a doctor someday. Can someone explain the typical path or steps to take in order to become a doctor in the US? Like, what should I major in during undergrad, and what comes after that?

Hello! To become a doctor in the United States, you typically follow a multi-step process that takes several years. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Bachelor's degree: Complete your undergraduate studies, often with a major in a science-related field like biology, chemistry, or physics. However, you can major in any field as long as you complete the required prerequisite courses for medical school. These courses often include biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and sometimes calculus or statistics. Maintaining a strong GPA and developing robust study habits are essential.

2. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Prepare for and take the MCAT, which is a standardized test that medical schools use to evaluate applicants. The MCAT tests your knowledge of basic science concepts, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It's important to score well on the MCAT, as it is often a major factor in medical school admissions.

3. Medical school applications: Apply to medical schools during your final year of undergraduate studies or after you have completed your bachelor's degree. This process involves writing essays, requesting letters of recommendation, and participating in interviews. Some students choose to apply to both allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) medical schools.

4. Medical school: Attend medical school for four years. The first two years typically involve classroom and laboratory instruction in subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, and pharmacology. The last two years involve clinical rotations in various medical specialties, where you gain hands-on experience alongside licensed physicians.

5. Residency: After graduating from medical school, you will begin a residency program in your chosen specialty, which can last anywhere from 3 to 7 years, depending on the field. During your residency, you will work under the supervision of attending physicians and gain experience managing patients in a hospital or clinic setting.

6. Board certification and licensing: Upon completing your residency, you'll take a series of exams to become board-certified in your chosen specialty. Additionally, you must obtain a medical license to legally practice medicine in the United States. Licensure requirements vary by state, but almost all states require passing a licensing exam, such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) for MDs or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Exam (COMLEX) for DOs.

7. Optional fellowship: If you wish to further specialize, you can apply for a fellowship after completing your residency. Fellowships typically last 1 to 3 years and provide training in subspecialties, such as sports medicine, gastroenterology, or endocrinology.

Once you've completed these steps, you'll officially be a practicing physician in your chosen specialty. Keep in mind that it's a demanding and time-consuming process, but it can be incredibly rewarding for those passionate about healthcare and helping others.