Shama
Any advice for pre-premedical students?
Hi, I'm a sophomore in high school, and I was wondering if any premed/ medical students/ physicians have any advice for a student in high school, that wants to become a doctor, that may help in my medical future. #medicine #career-path #doctorate-degree #motivation
5 answers
Michael DePietro
Michael’s Answer
Doctors need two different sets of skills. A good physician is a master of a great deal of scientific information and must continually teach themselves new things all throughout life. This means they are good learners, and therefore it helps to be a good student. You not only need to do well in school but also need to be in the habit of reading widely and being curious about how things work, developing the habit of asking what the evidence for a given statement or opinion is etc. In fact now medicine is affected by legal, economic and all kinds of other issues, so a healthy curiosity about lots of subjects is helpful. Take rigorous courses in school and work hard.
Doctors also must be comfortable dealing with a wide range of people, and are constantly interacting with them. You must take histories, discuss complicated medical problems with people who are often frightened and upset, teach people to follow a treatment plan, often you may find yourself teaching other health care professionals or lay person groups. In fact Doctor comes from a Latin word that means "teacher". Finally most doctors work as part of a health care team of other health care professionals so you need how to work and cooperate effectively with others. Therefore you do not want to be a "bookworm". You get these people skills from doing the kinds of things were you learn how to interact and engage with other kinds of folks. This means be active in some important extracurricular activities, this can range from playing sports, to working in school plays or music productions or volunteer activities that help your community, and more. If you do these things you will develop the skills to be a well rounded individuals prepared to study medicine and be a great doctor.
thnxx michael
B
Blake R. Nelson, BSRT, (R)(T),ARRT
Blake R.’s Answer
And I agree with the above.
Blake
Richard A.
Richard’s Answer
Go to class. Plan to spend 2-3 hours studying for every hour of lecture. Attend your professor's office hours and any TA review sessions. If there is a test bank, use that as a study tool to understand what your professor wants you to focus on for the test.
Blake R. Nelson, BSRT, (R)(T),ARRT
Blake R.’s Answer
This job is a passion. If you don't love it, you will hate it. I work with cancER patients daily, you have to love it. Any other questions I will be happy to answer.
Blake
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Advice for Pre-Premedical Students
As a sophomore in high school, you’ve taken the first step towards pursuing a career in medicine by expressing your interest in becoming a doctor. This is an exciting and challenging journey ahead, but with the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve your dream. Here are some pieces of advice from pre-medical students, medical students, and physicians that may help you on your medical journey:
Develop a strong foundation in science and mathematics:
As a pre-premedical student, it’s essential to focus on developing a strong foundation in science and mathematics. Take advanced courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics to build a solid base for your future studies. These subjects will be crucial in your medical education, and a strong foundation will help you succeed.
Get hands-on experience:
Experience is an essential aspect of any career, and medicine is no exception. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the medical field. You can volunteer at local hospitals, clinics, or research institutions to gain exposure to the healthcare system and learn from experienced professionals. This will not only help you gain practical skills but also give you an idea of what to expect in medical school and beyond.
Build a strong work ethic:
Becoming a doctor requires a tremendous amount of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. As a pre-premedical student, it’s essential to develop a strong work ethic and a willingness to put in the time and effort required to succeed. This includes studying diligently, attending review sessions, and seeking help when needed.
Develop effective time management skills:
As a medical student and later as a physician, you’ll need to manage your time effectively to balance academic responsibilities, clinical rotations, and personal life. Practice time management skills such as prioritizing tasks, setting realistic goals, and avoiding procrastination.
Seek guidance and mentorship:
Seek guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals in the medical field. This can include your teachers, mentors, or even physicians who can provide valuable advice and insights into the medical profession. They can help you navigate the challenges of medical school and beyond.
Stay motivated:
Becoming a doctor can be a long and challenging journey, and it’s essential to stay motivated throughout. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and remind yourself why you started this journey in the first place. Staying motivated will help you push through the challenges and achieve your goals.
Take care of your mental and physical health:
As a medical student and later as a physician, you’ll be exposed to high-stress environments and long hours. It’s essential to take care of your mental and physical health by practicing self-care, exercising regularly, and taking breaks when needed.
Be open to learning:
Becoming a doctor requires a lifelong commitment to learning. Stay open to new ideas, techniques, and technologies that can help you improve your skills and provide better patient care.
Develop strong communication skills:
As a physician, you’ll need to communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. Develop strong communication skills to build trust, empathy, and understanding with your patients.
Stay organized:
Keep track of your academic progress, clinical rotations, and professional development. Stay organized to ensure you meet deadlines, complete tasks, and stay on track with your goals.
In conclusion, becoming a doctor requires hard work, dedication, and the right guidance. By following these tips and staying focused on your goals, you can set yourself up for success in the medical field.
Authoritative Reference Titles:
“The Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR)” by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
“The Official Guide to Medical School Admissions” by the American Medical Association (AMA)
“The Complete Guide to Medical School” by the American Medical Association (AMA)
Note: These references provide comprehensive information on the medical school admissions process, the medical curriculum, and the professional development of physicians. They are essential resources for anyone considering a career in medicine.
God Please Bless Your Efforts,
James.