6 answers
Sarah
Student
Peachtree City, Georgia
3
Questions
Asked
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Is AP seminar recommended to be in to get into a medical school If so should I take the class. ?
I want to be a pediatrician.
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6 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1736
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Sarah the best high school pre-med courses would be science courses like chemistry, biology and physics theses are great classes to start with. Starting with these courses in high school is a great way to ease into these subjects and prepare for college courses. Additionally math would be another subject that you’ll want to study a variety of topics within. As a doctor, you will work with graphs, charts, and statistics and make calculations of your own. Algebra, calculus and statistics are all beneficial for building a solid foundation in math. If you can take a science and math courses every semester while in high school, then go for it. Remember however, that quality is better than quantity. It is better to take a few courses and receive a higher grade and have a deeper understanding than to overload yourself and just barely pass these courses. While good grades in high school can help you get into a good college, which is a necessary step to then apply to medical school, medical schools primarily focus on your college GPA and performance in prerequisite science courses, meaning your high school grades alone do not guarantee admission to med school; your college performance is more important.
COLLEGE
When choosing a pre-med major, keep in mind that medical school admissions committees have no prerequisites when it comes to degrees. Choose a degree or major in which you have a real interest. Be sure to take English, biology, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and math classes (college algebra or above), regardless of your major choice.
TAKE THE MCAT
You will need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) in order to get into a medical school. There are practice tests available to help you prepare. You should research the average MCAT score of your target medical school. Most prestigious medical schools have an average MCAT score of over 500.
ATTEND MEDICAL SCHOOL
Medical schools are hard to get into, and most look for high MCAT scores and good undergraduate grades. You’ll need to submit your transcripts, MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation, and you’ll also have to complete interviews with medical school staff. Once you’ve been accepted into medical school, expect to pay an average of $162,000- $265,000 over the course of four years. While you’re in medical school, you can pick your specialty.
COLLEGE
When choosing a pre-med major, keep in mind that medical school admissions committees have no prerequisites when it comes to degrees. Choose a degree or major in which you have a real interest. Be sure to take English, biology, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and math classes (college algebra or above), regardless of your major choice.
TAKE THE MCAT
You will need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) in order to get into a medical school. There are practice tests available to help you prepare. You should research the average MCAT score of your target medical school. Most prestigious medical schools have an average MCAT score of over 500.
ATTEND MEDICAL SCHOOL
Medical schools are hard to get into, and most look for high MCAT scores and good undergraduate grades. You’ll need to submit your transcripts, MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation, and you’ll also have to complete interviews with medical school staff. Once you’ve been accepted into medical school, expect to pay an average of $162,000- $265,000 over the course of four years. While you’re in medical school, you can pick your specialty.
Thank you so much!
Sarah
Michelle M.
Actress
2192
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Sarah !
Is it in High School or college that you may be asking about ?
The only way you'll know what is required to apply to Medical School is to read various Medical Schools websites. They feature the admissions requirements on their websites. It will be in college that you will have to know about the usual courses and what Major to take.
If you are fortunate to currently be in a high school that offers a seminar in a subject related to medical science, because many high schools do not offer it, I would advise taking the seminar to broaden your awareness about your future career. However, it almost seems as though you don't want to take this AP Seminar. You must take the classes that you want to take in high school. Your undergraduate college path will teach you the human sciences and you'll learn how to be a doctor in Medical School. There is no reason to use high school for it.
Also, keep in mind that after high school and applying for colleges, you will need your high school diploma and high school is completed. The undergrad college you attend will let you know what you need to take in order to obtain a Bachelors Degree. Choose a college and see what their admission requirements are. So high school is important for the basics, but it's not specifically what you took for your Major in high school, rather some colleges do ask that you've had certain general ed courses in order to be admitted to the college itself. No one can tell you this right now, because you'd have to know which college you're talking about. Something that you take in high school does not qualify you for medical school.
Think about taking the AP Seminar because it is a rare opportunity and you will learn a lot in the subject you plan to pursue. If you are asking for confirmation to not take it, I would not be able to provide that. You will have to make your own decision after verifying what I've said here with your guidance counselor.
I wish you the very best in your studies !
Is it in High School or college that you may be asking about ?
The only way you'll know what is required to apply to Medical School is to read various Medical Schools websites. They feature the admissions requirements on their websites. It will be in college that you will have to know about the usual courses and what Major to take.
If you are fortunate to currently be in a high school that offers a seminar in a subject related to medical science, because many high schools do not offer it, I would advise taking the seminar to broaden your awareness about your future career. However, it almost seems as though you don't want to take this AP Seminar. You must take the classes that you want to take in high school. Your undergraduate college path will teach you the human sciences and you'll learn how to be a doctor in Medical School. There is no reason to use high school for it.
Also, keep in mind that after high school and applying for colleges, you will need your high school diploma and high school is completed. The undergrad college you attend will let you know what you need to take in order to obtain a Bachelors Degree. Choose a college and see what their admission requirements are. So high school is important for the basics, but it's not specifically what you took for your Major in high school, rather some colleges do ask that you've had certain general ed courses in order to be admitted to the college itself. No one can tell you this right now, because you'd have to know which college you're talking about. Something that you take in high school does not qualify you for medical school.
Think about taking the AP Seminar because it is a rare opportunity and you will learn a lot in the subject you plan to pursue. If you are asking for confirmation to not take it, I would not be able to provide that. You will have to make your own decision after verifying what I've said here with your guidance counselor.
I wish you the very best in your studies !
Karin P.
Lecturer, Student Advisor
454
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Sarah,
If you want to get into medical school, taking AP science and/or maths is a good idea. Chemistry and biology would be the most important ones. You'll get a good start on your college classes.
Good luck on your path to become an awesome pediatrician!
KP
If you want to get into medical school, taking AP science and/or maths is a good idea. Chemistry and biology would be the most important ones. You'll get a good start on your college classes.
Good luck on your path to become an awesome pediatrician!
KP
Christina H
Emergency Physician
10
Answers
Worcester, Massachusetts
Updated
Christina’s Answer
So how DOES someone get into medical school to be a doctor, anyways?!
Well, medical school is FULL of studying and learning and lots of it. Your future patients need you to be bright and motivated and good at learning .But they also need you to be well-rounded so that you can connect with them or explain their condition to them. So really, medical school admissions committees are looking for a combination of a bright student who will be able to handle the rigors of a medical school curriculum, but who also will have strong ethics, accountability, professionalism, kindness, compassion, and an ability to connect with their patients.
So what about taking advanced placement "AP" courses?
AP courses are a good indicator that you are capable of taking hard classes, but it is mostly super important that you are successful at whatever course of study you undertake. It looks worse to fail a bunch of hard classes than it does to be successful at not- quite- as- hard classes.
If you think you are capable of handling the work of an AP class, it is a great opportunity to push yourself to study hard topics, to study a lot of information at once, to really work on note-taking skills or time management skills. It really can be worth it.
On the other hand, if you don't think it feels right and you aren't sure you can do it, then ask your best supporters around you if they think you should give it a go. For example, ask your favorite teachers or guidance, counselors or family who support your success. Ask the people who normally help guide you through difficult situations and decisions.
Don't be afraid to try hard things, even a hard class.
Pushing yourself to try something challenging can be a really good experience, but sometimes it can be the wrong time if you have a lot going on in your life. Ask the people that normally guide you through challenging decisions to give you their insight.
If you want some exposure to medical skills for children, consider taking pediatric CPR or first aid class. Another option would be a babysitting class which includes some basic first aid skills needed when caring for kids.
If you decide to take the advanced placement course, put some focus on study skills and time management skills because these will help you invaluably in a difficult course of study.
Keep your eyes on your dream, and you will get there, even if it has some twists and turns.
Well, medical school is FULL of studying and learning and lots of it. Your future patients need you to be bright and motivated and good at learning .But they also need you to be well-rounded so that you can connect with them or explain their condition to them. So really, medical school admissions committees are looking for a combination of a bright student who will be able to handle the rigors of a medical school curriculum, but who also will have strong ethics, accountability, professionalism, kindness, compassion, and an ability to connect with their patients.
So what about taking advanced placement "AP" courses?
AP courses are a good indicator that you are capable of taking hard classes, but it is mostly super important that you are successful at whatever course of study you undertake. It looks worse to fail a bunch of hard classes than it does to be successful at not- quite- as- hard classes.
If you think you are capable of handling the work of an AP class, it is a great opportunity to push yourself to study hard topics, to study a lot of information at once, to really work on note-taking skills or time management skills. It really can be worth it.
On the other hand, if you don't think it feels right and you aren't sure you can do it, then ask your best supporters around you if they think you should give it a go. For example, ask your favorite teachers or guidance, counselors or family who support your success. Ask the people who normally help guide you through difficult situations and decisions.
Christina recommends the following next steps:
Thank you!
Sarah
Bright Komor
Nurse
221
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Hello , this might do
AP Seminar can be a valuable class to take, but its direct impact on getting into medical school is somewhat indirect. Here's how it could help:
1. **Critical Thinking and Research Skills**: AP Seminar focuses on developing your ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and conduct research—skills that are important in medical school and as a pediatrician. These skills are especially useful when you're tackling scientific literature or thinking through patient cases.
2. **Improved Communication Skills**: As a pediatrician, you'll need to communicate effectively with patients, families, and colleagues. AP Seminar helps you hone your presentation and writing skills, which can make you a stronger candidate for both medical school applications and later in your medical career.
3. **Showcase Well-Roundedness**: Medical schools look for applicants with strong academic abilities, but they also value well-rounded individuals who can balance rigorous science coursework with other skills. Taking AP Seminar could demonstrate that you're capable of excelling in interdisciplinary subjects.
However, if your primary goal is to strengthen your medical school application, it might be more beneficial to prioritize AP classes that are directly related to science and math, such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Calculus. These classes are core to pre-med coursework and will more directly prepare you for medical school prerequisites.
Ultimately, whether you should take AP Seminar depends on your interest in the subject and if you're looking to strengthen your critical thinking and communication skills. If you're up for the challenge and want to diversify your academic profile, it's worth considering. But, if you’re focused solely on the science requirements, you might want to prioritize those first.
Are you currently taking any AP science courses? Or are you deciding between different types of classes?
AP Seminar can be a valuable class to take, but its direct impact on getting into medical school is somewhat indirect. Here's how it could help:
1. **Critical Thinking and Research Skills**: AP Seminar focuses on developing your ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and conduct research—skills that are important in medical school and as a pediatrician. These skills are especially useful when you're tackling scientific literature or thinking through patient cases.
2. **Improved Communication Skills**: As a pediatrician, you'll need to communicate effectively with patients, families, and colleagues. AP Seminar helps you hone your presentation and writing skills, which can make you a stronger candidate for both medical school applications and later in your medical career.
3. **Showcase Well-Roundedness**: Medical schools look for applicants with strong academic abilities, but they also value well-rounded individuals who can balance rigorous science coursework with other skills. Taking AP Seminar could demonstrate that you're capable of excelling in interdisciplinary subjects.
However, if your primary goal is to strengthen your medical school application, it might be more beneficial to prioritize AP classes that are directly related to science and math, such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Calculus. These classes are core to pre-med coursework and will more directly prepare you for medical school prerequisites.
Ultimately, whether you should take AP Seminar depends on your interest in the subject and if you're looking to strengthen your critical thinking and communication skills. If you're up for the challenge and want to diversify your academic profile, it's worth considering. But, if you’re focused solely on the science requirements, you might want to prioritize those first.
Are you currently taking any AP science courses? Or are you deciding between different types of classes?
Thanks for the advice.
Sarah
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1119
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Sarah! 🌟
So, you're aiming to become a pediatrician, huh? That’s awesome! 🩺👶 Now, about that AP Seminar: It could be fun, but it’s really not a must-have to get into medical school. It’s more of an optional, shiny extra that looks cool on your transcript. But here's the thing: **medical schools** aren’t really sitting there counting how many AP classes you took in high school. They're more interested in what **science and math** classes you’ve nailed, especially the ones that will set you up for those intense college pre-med courses.
### Here's the game plan:
1. **AP Science Courses**: Take AP Biology and AP Chemistry. Why? Because these are the heavyweights that’ll lay a solid foundation for all the hard science you’ll be doing in college. Trust me, when you hit college and have to dive deep into biology and chemistry, you’ll thank yourself for having a head start.
2. **Math Classes**: Get cozy with AP Calculus or AP Statistics. Why? Because being a doctor isn't all about saving lives; you'll also be dealing with **stats** and figuring out data, charts, and calculations. Math can help sharpen your brain for this part!
3. **AP Seminar**: This one’s nice if you want to flex your research skills and show you can handle complex topics. But it's not essential for med school prep. If you're more into having a deep, enriching conversation about some fascinating topic (say, pediatric care?), it could be a cool class to take. But don’t feel like you’re missing out if you skip it.
### Some key tips to keep in mind:
- **Quality over quantity**: Don’t overload yourself with AP classes just to have a fancy resume. It's better to rock a few challenging ones and get great grades than struggle with too many.
- **Medical schools care more about**: Your **undergrad GPA**, MCAT scores, and how well you do in science and math courses during college. So while high school is important, it’s just the warm-up!
- **Experience is key**: If you really want to stand out, think about volunteering at a hospital, shadowing a pediatrician, or even doing some babysitting. Hands-on experience is super valuable and will give you the real-deal pediatric vibes.
### Humor break (because why not?):
When it comes to AP Seminar, think of it like trying to decide whether to eat an extra slice of pizza 🍕—it’s nice to have, but do you really need it? And if you do eat it, you might just end up in a food coma (aka too much work). 😂
### Recommendation:
- If you’re super into it and can handle the workload, go for the AP Seminar. It could help you get better at managing big projects and thinking critically. But if you’re more focused on getting all those science and math classes down, then just stick to the essentials and skip the extra slice of pizza!
So yeah, you do you, Sarah! If it’s fun and feels right, take it. If it’s stressing you out and feels like extra work for no real reason, don’t sweat it.
Good luck on your journey to becoming the best pediatrician ever! 🌈👩⚕️ Keep your eye on the prize!
So, you're aiming to become a pediatrician, huh? That’s awesome! 🩺👶 Now, about that AP Seminar: It could be fun, but it’s really not a must-have to get into medical school. It’s more of an optional, shiny extra that looks cool on your transcript. But here's the thing: **medical schools** aren’t really sitting there counting how many AP classes you took in high school. They're more interested in what **science and math** classes you’ve nailed, especially the ones that will set you up for those intense college pre-med courses.
### Here's the game plan:
1. **AP Science Courses**: Take AP Biology and AP Chemistry. Why? Because these are the heavyweights that’ll lay a solid foundation for all the hard science you’ll be doing in college. Trust me, when you hit college and have to dive deep into biology and chemistry, you’ll thank yourself for having a head start.
2. **Math Classes**: Get cozy with AP Calculus or AP Statistics. Why? Because being a doctor isn't all about saving lives; you'll also be dealing with **stats** and figuring out data, charts, and calculations. Math can help sharpen your brain for this part!
3. **AP Seminar**: This one’s nice if you want to flex your research skills and show you can handle complex topics. But it's not essential for med school prep. If you're more into having a deep, enriching conversation about some fascinating topic (say, pediatric care?), it could be a cool class to take. But don’t feel like you’re missing out if you skip it.
### Some key tips to keep in mind:
- **Quality over quantity**: Don’t overload yourself with AP classes just to have a fancy resume. It's better to rock a few challenging ones and get great grades than struggle with too many.
- **Medical schools care more about**: Your **undergrad GPA**, MCAT scores, and how well you do in science and math courses during college. So while high school is important, it’s just the warm-up!
- **Experience is key**: If you really want to stand out, think about volunteering at a hospital, shadowing a pediatrician, or even doing some babysitting. Hands-on experience is super valuable and will give you the real-deal pediatric vibes.
### Humor break (because why not?):
When it comes to AP Seminar, think of it like trying to decide whether to eat an extra slice of pizza 🍕—it’s nice to have, but do you really need it? And if you do eat it, you might just end up in a food coma (aka too much work). 😂
### Recommendation:
- If you’re super into it and can handle the workload, go for the AP Seminar. It could help you get better at managing big projects and thinking critically. But if you’re more focused on getting all those science and math classes down, then just stick to the essentials and skip the extra slice of pizza!
So yeah, you do you, Sarah! If it’s fun and feels right, take it. If it’s stressing you out and feels like extra work for no real reason, don’t sweat it.
Good luck on your journey to becoming the best pediatrician ever! 🌈👩⚕️ Keep your eye on the prize!