3 answers
Sheila’s Answer
Hello Marlene: The previous comment is right on point. I'd like to provide additional info. Medical schools do look for students who have successfully completed pre-medical coursework, which includes math, chemistry, biology and physics. Students are also expected to have coursework in English and social sciences. A degree in biology is a common pathway for aspiring physicians, and some schools offer structured pre-medical programs that are designed to prepare students for medical school.
https://study.com/articles/How_to_Become_a_Pediatric_Doctor_Education_and_Career_Roadmap.html
As a proud Mom of a resident Pediatrician, I suggest that you do a summer intern with a Pediatrician whether it is paid or "volunteer". The experience and knowledge you gain will definitely help you on your medical school application, in addition to the friendships you'll make along the way.
This is a long and expensive journey you are embarking upon. So start early researching the colleges and medical schools you're interested in. The early and extensive research you do the better prepared you'll be.
TIP: Talk to your primary care physician is also a good resource.
Saddle up and get ready for a long ride ahead. I wish you much success on your path.
Best Regards!
~ Sheila
Sheila recommends the following next steps:
Richard’s Answer
Pick a major that interests you so you don't mind devoting a majority of your hours to studying. You will need to get good grades in college in order to apply for medical school. At the medical school I attended, the average GPA is reported to be 3.85, so even one or two B's can hurt your chances of acceptance.
Aside from this, any major is acceptable as long as you complete the prerequisite courses. I chose biochemistry because there was overlap with the premed requirements and I wanted to complete my degree in 3 years.
Typical medical school prerequisites include:
Biology: Lecture – 4 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
General Chemistry: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Organic Chemistry: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Biochemistry: Lecture – 1 semester
General Physics: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Math: Statistics – 1 semester
English: Rhetoric (Composition) and Literature – 2 semesters
Marci’s Answer
Meet with the academic advisor at your school about requirements at your specific school. Generally a solid foundation in the sciences...specifically biology and chemistry. Most importantly, shadow a pediatrician.
Marci recommends the following next steps: