I’ve taken biomedical sciences Ap biology and chemistry is this a good start to studying for a medical field job?

Hi Chloe!

To answer your question, yes. Being a junior in high school and already having those under you belt helps tremendously for taking more advanced science courses earlier on in college (which is key). I would say when entering your senior year, take any other AP courses you can, doesn't have to be science related. This will allow you to focus on your major, and minor if applicable, in college instead of 'redundant' required entry level courses. Do as much as you can while you're still in high school; keep the thought of what's going to 'pad' my resume? When you get into college, carry this thought constantly with you!

When it comes to what kind of doctor you want to be, don't get stuck on thinking you need to know when you're applying to college or medical school. A specialty usually isn't determined until you are in medical school. Have an end in mind for yourself, but know it probably will change; keep an open mind, and simply allow your passions to guide you.

Applying for college is a daunting, but an exciting task. It doesn't necessarily matter as much where you get your bachelor's degree from (unless of course Ivy Leagues). Focus on colleges that have a huge science department, ones that have many active labs and show a lot of opportunities for students to present research/posters at conferences and other public speaking platforms. In addition, look into what each college's labs are focused on; you'll want to be a part of a lab(s) assisting a professor, so make sure their research topics interest you!

Colleges that have student health/medical/med school organizations you can participate in, is huge! This is outside of coursework, and you want to be involved in multiple organizations on campus relating to medicine. Not only will this get you involved with others that share your passion, they provide opportunities for you to learn more about different fields to go into you might not of known before, the 'path' to med school (if med school focused) and leadership!

If medical school is the route you want to take, decide sooner rather than later. Medical schools want 'well rounded' applicants that still have an already big exposure to the field of medicine well before you starting to study for the MCAT. So, look for opportunities to shadow doctors (you could even start now) and when you're in college look at job openings in nearby hospitals looking for a medical scribe.

To wrap up, the more involved you are the better. There is a lot that goes into preparing to go to med school and meeting their requirements. Where you go for your undergrad only matters if it can provide opportunities for you to get where you want to go and succeed. Because there is a bit of research you'll have to do in order to make that decision, don't hold yourself back from gathering all the necessary information; contact a college administrator and ask them questions that you can't find from their website, search engines, books, or word of mouth alone. You can never be too curious!