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how do i begin a journey in medicine after high school?

how do i begin a journey in medicine after high school?

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Subject: Career question for you

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Samantha’s Answer

Embarking on a medical career can be an exhilarating journey, and there are a few proactive steps you can take to kickstart your path: shadow a doctor to gain firsthand insights, volunteer to build your experience, and get some hands-on patient care exposure.

Seek out a reputable four-year university that provides a bachelor's degree in science or premed. Aim for programs that offer comprehensive coursework in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, and physics. While some medical schools may require additional prerequisite courses, a bachelor's degree in a science or premed field usually covers the majority of these subjects.

There's a wealth of resources available to guide you on when and how to apply to medical schools. Letters of recommendation are crucial, and medical schools appreciate those from premed advising committees and science professors.

The MCAT is a challenging test that demands dedicated study time to prepare for, but don't be daunted. Your hard work will pay off.

The journey towards becoming a practicing doctor typically spans over several years: four years for your bachelor's degree, possibly a gap year, another four years of medical school, and then a residency period of 3-6 years.

Embarking on a medical career is indeed challenging, but the rewards are immense. You're capable of achieving this, and I wish you the best of luck on your exciting journey!
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Rita’s Answer

4 years of college
4 years of medical school
minimum of 3 years internship and residency

If you are in science, I would try to do research, try to volunteer but I think the most helpful advice is to work as a medical scribe. The medical students who worked as scribes were sharper when they rotated with me. I don't think they were smarter but because they had the experience, it helped them. You get to interact with doctors and can see if medicine is what you imagined. I also challenge you to do the following: You will have shifts to work 8-5 for example. I challenge you to go into the office when the doctor starts work and stay until s/he leaves. This is going to be your life. So, when you have a dinner plan at 5:30 pm with someone and the doctor is still there, you will cancel your plans because this is what your life will be.
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Brett’s Answer

Hi David,

The field of medicine covers many different careers in dozens of different specialties. Healthcare relies upon technologists, nurses, and physicians. How is one to choose? The education path, time to complete training, salary, and expected work hours/schedule will vary greatly.

One can read online about these different fields and careers, but that is no substitute for real life experience. So my advice to you is to volunteer at your local hospital and see as much as you can. Ask people if you can shadow them - you will most likely get a lot of rejections, but it just takes one yes to provide you with what can be an invaluable experience. I know when I see a young person interested in my field and wanting to learn more, I bend over backwards to show them what I do.

As far as your education goes, if you are in high school, take the most challenging science and math courses that your school offers. Speak with a guidance counselor to help guide you on your journey.

Hope that helps, and good luck!

Brett Schlifstein, M.D.
Anesthesia Director
ECU Health Roanoke Chowan Hospital
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello David!

Beginning a Journey in Medicine After High School

Embarking on a journey in medicine after high school is an exciting and challenging path that requires careful planning, dedication, and a commitment to education. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process.

1. Understand the Medical Field

Before diving into the educational requirements, it’s essential to understand the various roles within the medical field. Medicine encompasses a wide range of professions, including physicians, nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, and more. Research these roles to determine which path aligns best with your interests and career goals.

2. Complete Your Undergraduate Education

Most medical schools require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree. Here are the steps involved:

Choose a Major: While you can major in any field, many students choose science-related majors such as biology or chemistry because they cover prerequisite courses for medical school.
Complete Prerequisite Courses: Medical schools typically require specific courses such as biology, chemistry (general and organic), physics, and mathematics. Check the requirements of the medical schools you are interested in to ensure you meet their criteria.
Maintain a Strong GPA: Aim for a GPA of 3.5 or higher to be competitive in medical school applications.

3. Gain Relevant Experience

Experience in healthcare settings is crucial for your application:

Volunteer or Work in Healthcare: Seek volunteer opportunities at hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. This experience will not only enhance your application but also provide insight into patient care.
Shadow Professionals: Shadowing doctors or other healthcare professionals can give you firsthand knowledge of their daily responsibilities and help confirm your interest in pursuing medicine.

4. Prepare for the MCAT

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required for admission to most medical schools:

Study Early: Begin studying for the MCAT during your undergraduate years. Many students take it after completing their prerequisite courses.
Use Resources: Utilize study guides, prep courses, and practice exams available through organizations like the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).

5. Apply to Medical Schools

Once you have completed your undergraduate degree and taken the MCAT:

Research Medical Schools: Look into various medical schools’ programs, locations, cultures, and admission requirements.
Prepare Your Application Materials: This includes transcripts, letters of recommendation from professors or healthcare professionals you’ve worked with, and personal statements detailing your motivations for pursuing medicine.
Submit Applications Through AMCAS: Most U.S. medical schools use the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) for applications.

6. Attend Medical School

If accepted into medical school:

Complete Your Degree: Medical school typically lasts four years and includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Participate in student organizations related to medicine or community service projects to enhance your experience.

7. Pursue Residency Training

After graduating from medical school:

Apply for Residency Programs: This involves matching into a residency program where you will receive specialized training in your chosen field of medicine.
Complete Residency Training: Depending on your specialty, residency can last anywhere from three to seven years.

8. Obtain Licensure

To practice medicine legally:

Pass Licensing Exams: You must pass exams such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) for MDs or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) for DOs.
Apply for State Licensure: Each state has its own licensing board; ensure you meet all requirements specific to your state.

9. Consider Further Specialization

After residency:

If desired, pursue fellowship training in subspecialties which can take an additional one to three years depending on the field.

By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and resilience throughout this rigorous journey, you can successfully embark on a career in medicine after high school.

Probability that this answer is correct: 95%

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

1. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
The AAMC provides comprehensive resources regarding medical education pathways including information about undergraduate prerequisites and MCAT preparation.

2. American Medical Association (AMA)
The AMA offers guidance on careers in medicine along with detailed information about residency programs and licensure processes necessary for practicing physicians.

3. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
The NIH provides extensive research-based insights into various fields within medicine as well as information on health careers that can assist prospective students in making informed decisions about their paths forward.

God Bless You!
JC.
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