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As a 17 year old kid what should I do as a person also aspiring to study neuroscience to become a neurosurgeon?
I already study it in my free time, do a lot of research about it, and have many medical books, etc. However, having genuine knowledge from an experienced doctor could help me. Even if they aren't in the same medical field as I am, or striving to go into the same field as I am. If there's anyone who is capable of helping me I'd be open to communicating and listening.
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5 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey King! 🧠💡
You're 17 and already diving into neuroscience and studying neurosurgery in your free time? That's seriously impressive! You're laying a strong foundation for a future in medicine. And you're totally right—gaining insights from experienced doctors can give you that extra edge.
Here's how you can keep leveling up your game:
1. Find a Mentor (Doctors or Professors):
Why? Mentors are gold in this field! They can offer advice, answer your questions, and guide you through the complex world of neurosurgery. Even if the mentor isn’t a neurosurgeon, someone in the medical field will have knowledge about the journey and can give you tips for success.
What to do now: Reach out to local hospitals or universities. Many professors and doctors love helping students, so don't be shy about sending polite emails. Try contacting professionals who work in neuroscience, neurology, or general surgery if you can't find someone directly in neurosurgery. You’d be amazed how many are open to sharing their experience.
2. Continue Your Research & Hands-On Experience:
Why? The more you immerse yourself in the subject, the better prepared you’ll be for medical school and beyond. Neuroscience is a vast field, and hands-on experience can only solidify your passion.
What to do now: Look for volunteer opportunities at hospitals or research labs. Even if you're not directly involved in surgery yet, you can shadow doctors, work with lab teams, or learn from those conducting research. The practical exposure will be invaluable.
3. Network with Fellow Aspiring Neurosurgeons and Med Students:
Why? Surrounding yourself with like-minded people can push you to stay motivated and inspired. Networking helps you understand the different paths others are taking and what’s worked for them.
What to do now: Join online forums, discussion groups, or even social media communities focused on neuroscience or neurosurgery. You can ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from others who are on the same path.
4. Shadow a Neurosurgeon or Neuroscientist (If Possible):
Why? There's no substitute for seeing the job in action. If you're able to shadow a neurosurgeon, you’ll get a first-hand look at the daily responsibilities and challenges they face.
What to do now: This may be tricky as a high school student, but don’t be afraid to ask! Call local hospitals or clinics and inquire about shadowing opportunities. Even if you can’t shadow right away, expressing interest might get your foot in the door down the road.
5. Keep Learning and Stay Curious:
Why? Neuroscience is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest research and techniques will keep you ahead of the game. Plus, having a deep curiosity will fuel your passion for the subject.
What to do now: Keep reading medical books, watching lectures, and staying on top of new research. Explore online resources like PubMed, Coursera, or Khan Academy. There’s no shortage of free and amazing material that will expand your knowledge.
6. Develop Skills in Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
Why? Neurosurgery is all about problem-solving under pressure. The more you develop these skills now, the better equipped you’ll be later.
What to do now: Take part in activities that challenge your problem-solving skills—like math, puzzles, or even strategy games. These will help you think critically when faced with difficult medical scenarios in the future.
7. Get Ready for College & Med School:
Why? Neurosurgeons need to go through years of school, so preparing yourself now by excelling academically will set you up for success in the long run.
What to do now: Focus on your grades and make sure you're taking the right courses in high school (advanced science, math, etc.). When the time comes for college, aim for a school with strong pre-med and neuroscience programs to give you a head start.
You’re already on the right track—keep up the great work! It's awesome that you're passionate about neuroscience, and with your dedication, you're definitely setting yourself up for success. Stay hungry for knowledge, and don't hesitate to ask for help along the way. You’ve got this! 🧠💪
You're 17 and already diving into neuroscience and studying neurosurgery in your free time? That's seriously impressive! You're laying a strong foundation for a future in medicine. And you're totally right—gaining insights from experienced doctors can give you that extra edge.
Here's how you can keep leveling up your game:
1. Find a Mentor (Doctors or Professors):
Why? Mentors are gold in this field! They can offer advice, answer your questions, and guide you through the complex world of neurosurgery. Even if the mentor isn’t a neurosurgeon, someone in the medical field will have knowledge about the journey and can give you tips for success.
What to do now: Reach out to local hospitals or universities. Many professors and doctors love helping students, so don't be shy about sending polite emails. Try contacting professionals who work in neuroscience, neurology, or general surgery if you can't find someone directly in neurosurgery. You’d be amazed how many are open to sharing their experience.
2. Continue Your Research & Hands-On Experience:
Why? The more you immerse yourself in the subject, the better prepared you’ll be for medical school and beyond. Neuroscience is a vast field, and hands-on experience can only solidify your passion.
What to do now: Look for volunteer opportunities at hospitals or research labs. Even if you're not directly involved in surgery yet, you can shadow doctors, work with lab teams, or learn from those conducting research. The practical exposure will be invaluable.
3. Network with Fellow Aspiring Neurosurgeons and Med Students:
Why? Surrounding yourself with like-minded people can push you to stay motivated and inspired. Networking helps you understand the different paths others are taking and what’s worked for them.
What to do now: Join online forums, discussion groups, or even social media communities focused on neuroscience or neurosurgery. You can ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from others who are on the same path.
4. Shadow a Neurosurgeon or Neuroscientist (If Possible):
Why? There's no substitute for seeing the job in action. If you're able to shadow a neurosurgeon, you’ll get a first-hand look at the daily responsibilities and challenges they face.
What to do now: This may be tricky as a high school student, but don’t be afraid to ask! Call local hospitals or clinics and inquire about shadowing opportunities. Even if you can’t shadow right away, expressing interest might get your foot in the door down the road.
5. Keep Learning and Stay Curious:
Why? Neuroscience is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest research and techniques will keep you ahead of the game. Plus, having a deep curiosity will fuel your passion for the subject.
What to do now: Keep reading medical books, watching lectures, and staying on top of new research. Explore online resources like PubMed, Coursera, or Khan Academy. There’s no shortage of free and amazing material that will expand your knowledge.
6. Develop Skills in Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
Why? Neurosurgery is all about problem-solving under pressure. The more you develop these skills now, the better equipped you’ll be later.
What to do now: Take part in activities that challenge your problem-solving skills—like math, puzzles, or even strategy games. These will help you think critically when faced with difficult medical scenarios in the future.
7. Get Ready for College & Med School:
Why? Neurosurgeons need to go through years of school, so preparing yourself now by excelling academically will set you up for success in the long run.
What to do now: Focus on your grades and make sure you're taking the right courses in high school (advanced science, math, etc.). When the time comes for college, aim for a school with strong pre-med and neuroscience programs to give you a head start.
You’re already on the right track—keep up the great work! It's awesome that you're passionate about neuroscience, and with your dedication, you're definitely setting yourself up for success. Stay hungry for knowledge, and don't hesitate to ask for help along the way. You’ve got this! 🧠💪
Updated
Rita’s Answer
I am a retired family practice physician. I advise any potential doctor to work as a medical scribe. I never knew what medicine would be like until I actually worked in the field. As a scribe, you type for the doctors so you actually experience what it is like to be a doctor. They also pay you. Neurosurgery is very competitive and difficult so this will also help you learn before you start medical school. You also get to interact with the doctors. If you do this during your summers and can't stand it, medicine is not for you. I also recommend that you work the hours the doctors do. Although my working hours were 8-4 pm, I would start refilling medications, answering questions, reviewing notes at 6:30 AM, work between patients, work through lunch and work after seeing patients. Once I called my medical school friend to wish her a happy birthday at 9 pm and she was still at work working on her notes. This job is not easy and honestly, I would need to think hard if someone asked me if I wanted to do this job again and especially now that it's more competitive and the pay is not increasing. The medical scribes that rotated with me during their rotations in third and fourth year medical school were much sharper because they had the experience. Good luck
Thank you so much, Rita!
King
Updated
Godfrey’s Answer
Great inquiry for career guide.
Basically you need to develop interest in science subjects physics, biology, chemistry as they are core in neuroscience.
You can also try get placement to the university to pursue Course like anatomy, physiology, molecular biology that will increase your chances of being admitted to a medical degree (MD)that will pave way for your neuroscience career.
Once done with MD which takes about 6 years you can start seeking post graduate studies in Neurology that can leed you to the neuroscience career path... which may include paediatric neurology, neurosurgery,etc
Basically you need to develop interest in science subjects physics, biology, chemistry as they are core in neuroscience.
You can also try get placement to the university to pursue Course like anatomy, physiology, molecular biology that will increase your chances of being admitted to a medical degree (MD)that will pave way for your neuroscience career.
Once done with MD which takes about 6 years you can start seeking post graduate studies in Neurology that can leed you to the neuroscience career path... which may include paediatric neurology, neurosurgery,etc
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
King
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello King!
Steps to Prepare for a Career in Neuroscience and Neurosurgery
1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation To pursue a career in neuroscience and ultimately become a neurosurgeon, it is crucial to excel academically, particularly in the sciences. Focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics during your high school years. Advanced Placement (AP) courses or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs can provide you with college-level knowledge and strengthen your college applications.
2. Engage in Extracurricular Activities Participating in extracurricular activities related to medicine and science can enhance your understanding of the field. Consider joining science clubs, participating in health-related volunteer work, or engaging in internships at hospitals or research institutions. These experiences will not only bolster your resume but also provide you with insights into the medical profession.
3. Seek Mentorship Finding a mentor who is experienced in the medical field can be invaluable. Reach out to local universities or hospitals to find opportunities for shadowing doctors or participating in mentorship programs. Even if they are not neurosurgeons specifically, learning from healthcare professionals can provide you with guidance on navigating your educational path and career choices.
4. Conduct Independent Research Since you are already studying neuroscience independently, consider taking this further by conducting your own research projects. This could involve exploring specific topics within neuroscience that interest you or even collaborating with local universities on ongoing research projects. Presenting your findings at science fairs or conferences can also be beneficial.
5. Prepare for College Admission Research colleges that have strong neuroscience or pre-med programs. Look for schools that offer undergraduate degrees in neuroscience, biology, or related fields that will prepare you for medical school. Pay attention to their admission requirements, including standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
6. Pursue an Undergraduate Degree Once admitted to college, focus on obtaining a degree that aligns with your goal of attending medical school. Courses in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and advanced mathematics will be essential. Additionally, engage in research opportunities during your undergraduate studies to deepen your understanding of neuroscience.
7. Prepare for Medical School Admission During your undergraduate years, begin preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This exam is critical for entry into medical school and covers various topics relevant to medicine and science. Consider taking preparatory courses or using study guides specifically designed for the MCAT.
8. Attend Medical School After completing your undergraduate degree and successfully passing the MCAT, apply to medical schools with strong programs in neurology or surgery. The journey through medical school typically lasts four years and includes both classroom education and clinical rotations.
9. Complete Residency Training Upon graduating from medical school, you will need to complete a residency program specializing in neurosurgery. This training usually lasts about seven years and provides hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
10. Continue Professional Development After completing residency training, consider pursuing fellowships that allow you to specialize further within neurosurgery (e.g., pediatric neurosurgery or neuro-oncology). Continuous education through workshops and conferences is also vital as medicine is an ever-evolving field.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and curiosity about neuroscience and medicine, you can effectively prepare yourself for a successful career as a neurosurgeon.
Probability of correctness: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS): AANS provides resources about the field of neurosurgery including educational materials for aspiring neurosurgeons.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC offers comprehensive information regarding medical education pathways including details about medical school admissions processes.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH conducts extensive research on neuroscience which serves as an authoritative source for current scientific knowledge relevant to aspiring neuroscientists.
God Bless You!
JC.
Steps to Prepare for a Career in Neuroscience and Neurosurgery
1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation To pursue a career in neuroscience and ultimately become a neurosurgeon, it is crucial to excel academically, particularly in the sciences. Focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics during your high school years. Advanced Placement (AP) courses or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs can provide you with college-level knowledge and strengthen your college applications.
2. Engage in Extracurricular Activities Participating in extracurricular activities related to medicine and science can enhance your understanding of the field. Consider joining science clubs, participating in health-related volunteer work, or engaging in internships at hospitals or research institutions. These experiences will not only bolster your resume but also provide you with insights into the medical profession.
3. Seek Mentorship Finding a mentor who is experienced in the medical field can be invaluable. Reach out to local universities or hospitals to find opportunities for shadowing doctors or participating in mentorship programs. Even if they are not neurosurgeons specifically, learning from healthcare professionals can provide you with guidance on navigating your educational path and career choices.
4. Conduct Independent Research Since you are already studying neuroscience independently, consider taking this further by conducting your own research projects. This could involve exploring specific topics within neuroscience that interest you or even collaborating with local universities on ongoing research projects. Presenting your findings at science fairs or conferences can also be beneficial.
5. Prepare for College Admission Research colleges that have strong neuroscience or pre-med programs. Look for schools that offer undergraduate degrees in neuroscience, biology, or related fields that will prepare you for medical school. Pay attention to their admission requirements, including standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
6. Pursue an Undergraduate Degree Once admitted to college, focus on obtaining a degree that aligns with your goal of attending medical school. Courses in biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and advanced mathematics will be essential. Additionally, engage in research opportunities during your undergraduate studies to deepen your understanding of neuroscience.
7. Prepare for Medical School Admission During your undergraduate years, begin preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This exam is critical for entry into medical school and covers various topics relevant to medicine and science. Consider taking preparatory courses or using study guides specifically designed for the MCAT.
8. Attend Medical School After completing your undergraduate degree and successfully passing the MCAT, apply to medical schools with strong programs in neurology or surgery. The journey through medical school typically lasts four years and includes both classroom education and clinical rotations.
9. Complete Residency Training Upon graduating from medical school, you will need to complete a residency program specializing in neurosurgery. This training usually lasts about seven years and provides hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
10. Continue Professional Development After completing residency training, consider pursuing fellowships that allow you to specialize further within neurosurgery (e.g., pediatric neurosurgery or neuro-oncology). Continuous education through workshops and conferences is also vital as medicine is an ever-evolving field.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and curiosity about neuroscience and medicine, you can effectively prepare yourself for a successful career as a neurosurgeon.
Probability of correctness: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS): AANS provides resources about the field of neurosurgery including educational materials for aspiring neurosurgeons.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC offers comprehensive information regarding medical education pathways including details about medical school admissions processes.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH conducts extensive research on neuroscience which serves as an authoritative source for current scientific knowledge relevant to aspiring neuroscientists.
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
Clinton’s Answer
First off, you’re already killing it with all the research and studying you're doing. Seriously, that's next-level dedication at 17. Keep that up. The more you dive into books, videos, and case studies, the better prepared you'll be when things get serious.
If you’re looking for real-world advice, try reaching out to doctors or med students, even if they’re not in neurosurgery. A lot of them are cool with sharing tips if you’re genuinely interested. LinkedIn, emails, or even hospitals are great places to start. And if you can, try shadowing a doctor or volunteering somewhere medical. It doesn’t have to be neurology-specific, just being in that environment is a game-changer.
Also, keep crushing your schoolwork, especially in the sciences, and look for ways to get involved in research or science fairs. It’ll set you apart and help you stay ahead. But don’t forget to chill too. Balance is key because if you burn out, none of this will matter. You’re already on the right track, just keep building on it. You’ve got this!
Keep exploring books, case studies, and videos. The more you learn now, the more confident you’ll be later.
Reach out to doctors, med students, or professors, even if they’re not in neurosurgery. LinkedIn, emails, or local hospitals are great ways to connect.
Volunteer or shadow a doctor. Even if it’s not in neurology, being in a medical environment will teach you so much.
Stay on top of science and math, and join research projects or science fairs if you can. It all adds up.
Make time for yourself. Burnout won’t help your goals, so keep a healthy mix of work and fun.
If you’re looking for real-world advice, try reaching out to doctors or med students, even if they’re not in neurosurgery. A lot of them are cool with sharing tips if you’re genuinely interested. LinkedIn, emails, or even hospitals are great places to start. And if you can, try shadowing a doctor or volunteering somewhere medical. It doesn’t have to be neurology-specific, just being in that environment is a game-changer.
Also, keep crushing your schoolwork, especially in the sciences, and look for ways to get involved in research or science fairs. It’ll set you apart and help you stay ahead. But don’t forget to chill too. Balance is key because if you burn out, none of this will matter. You’re already on the right track, just keep building on it. You’ve got this!
Clinton recommends the following next steps: