Considering going into the pre-med route and I heard Penn State's program is good. Anyone currently in it or graduated from it that can share their experiences?
Penn State indeed has strong programs for students looking to pursue a pre-medical track. Though there isn't a specific "pre-med" major, Penn State offers a variety of majors popular with pre-med students. These include majors in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biobehavioral Health, and Neuroscience, among others.
Penn State has rigorous, science-focused classes that can effectively prepare you for the MCAT and graduate-level study. It also has a wealth of opportunities for research and internships, which are crucial for building a strong medical school application. The university has numerous laboratories dedicated to diverse fields, from neurobiology to genetics, providing a great chance for you to dive deep into a specific area of interest.
In terms of advising, the university offers pre-med advising through its Pre-health Professions Advising Center. This center can provide solid guidance in navigating your coursework, preparing for the MCAT, and eventually applying to medical school.
Clinically, Penn State’s proximity to Hershey Medical Center presents wonderful opportunities for shadowing, internships, and volunteering. Medical exposure is an essential part of a pre-med student’s resume and Hershey Medical Center is a reputable institution to gain such experience.
Do note that any path towards medical school can be quite challenging. You'll need to maintain a strong GPA, engage in meaningful extracurricular activities (preferably related to healthcare), and perform well on the MCAT. Regardless of the strength of Penn State's pre-health pathway, the onus falls on you to take advantage of the opportunities available and to seek out support and resources as needed.
To summarize, if you are self-motivated and ready to dive into rigorous science coursework and potentially collaborate in research, Penn State has the resources and opportunities to furnish a solid pre-med path.
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