2 answers
Imani
Student
Miami Gardens, Florida
14
Questions
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When do you really know when you wanna be an doctor ?
#doctors #doctorate-degree
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2 answers
Suzanne Sorkin
Retired family physician and medical educator
115
Answers
Traverse City, Michigan
Updated
Suzanne’s Answer
Imani, I think you're asking a great question because becoming a doctor takes a long time, a lot of work and deep commitments so....you don't want to go into it casually. On the other hand, being a doctor can be incredibly fulfilling (as I found out being a family doctor for many years) and it's really wonderful to be able to take care of people with the skills you have worked so hard for. ....So, to get back to your question, I think it varies. I was pretty sure I wanted to do something in health care by about eighth or ninth grade but I didn't know what exactly. It was when I took biology in tenth grade and found I loved it that I realized I could major in biology in college and then go on to medical school to put that science to work in caring for patients.
Some other people come to medicine later in life either while they are still in college or even after they've started another career or have a family and realize that being a doctor would be their dream and it's not too late to make it happen.
If you are considering medicine, I'd suggest you try to get as exposed to health careers as much as you can now. As soon as you are fully vaccinated for the coronavirus you may be able to get either a paid job or a volunteer job in health care, even as a high school student. You may be able to become a certified nurse assistant (CNA) or find a volunteer job this summer for teens at your local hospital. Try to talk to people in health careers (nurses, therapists, doctors, etc). If there is a pre-health care club at your school or through local organizations get involved and keep an open mind.
Here's a helpful website for those wondering if a medical career is right for them: https://students-residents.aamc.org/premed-resources/choosing-medical-career
Some other people come to medicine later in life either while they are still in college or even after they've started another career or have a family and realize that being a doctor would be their dream and it's not too late to make it happen.
If you are considering medicine, I'd suggest you try to get as exposed to health careers as much as you can now. As soon as you are fully vaccinated for the coronavirus you may be able to get either a paid job or a volunteer job in health care, even as a high school student. You may be able to become a certified nurse assistant (CNA) or find a volunteer job this summer for teens at your local hospital. Try to talk to people in health careers (nurses, therapists, doctors, etc). If there is a pre-health care club at your school or through local organizations get involved and keep an open mind.
Suzanne recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Imani,
Section I: Unveiling the Aspiration to Embark on a Medical Career
The journey towards embracing a medical profession such as a doctor is typically shaped by numerous elements, encompassing personal encounters, a deep-rooted desire to serve others, and a profound fascination with science and medicine. It's crucial to understand that this aspiration isn't an overnight phenomenon, but a gradual process, nurtured through diverse healthcare experiences.
Section II: Initial Encounters and Inspirations
A significant number of future doctors often have initial exposure to healthcare environments, either through relatives in the sector or personal experiences with disease or injury. These early interactions can ignite an intrigue and fascination towards the medical field, paving the way for further exploration and ultimate dedication to the doctor's profession.
Section III: Zeal for Serving Others
A burning desire to assist others is a pivotal element of becoming a doctor. Those who opt for this career path usually possess empathetic traits and derive satisfaction from positively impacting people's lives. Personal experiences, such as witnessing a family member battling a disease or receiving outstanding care from a healthcare professional, can further fuel this passion.
Section IV: Fascination with Science and Medicine
A fascination with science and medicine plays a vital role in deciding if one wishes to become a doctor. This interest can be sparked by studying biology or chemistry at school or university, participating in scientific research activities, or engaging in healthcare-related extracurricular activities. As this interest intensifies, individuals may decide to delve deeper into pre-medical studies or enroll in a medical school.
Section V: Devotion and Tenacity
The path to becoming a doctor demands years of unwavering dedication and strenuous effort. Aspiring doctors need to complete undergraduate studies, graduate from medical school, and then finish residency training in their chosen specialty. Throughout this journey, individuals must showcase unwavering commitment and resilience to surmount obstacles and realize their ambitions.
In summary, the choice to become a doctor is multifaceted, influenced by various factors such as initial exposure to healthcare environments, a passion for serving others, and a deep interest in science and medicine. Devotion and tenacity are also vital traits for those venturing into this challenging profession.
Authoritative Reference Titles:
American Medical Association: The AMA offers a wealth of resources and information for budding doctors, including advice on selecting a specialty and navigating the medical education journey. It was referenced to comprehend the general pathway towards becoming a doctor and the various factors influencing this decision.
Association of American Medical Colleges: The AAMC provides insights into medical school admissions, prerequisites, and resources for prospective students. It was referred to gain a comprehensive understanding of the prerequisites and expectations for those embarking on a medical career.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The BLS offers occupational employment statistics and forecasts for various sectors, including healthcare. It was referred to understand the job prospects and demand for physicians in the United States, which can influence an individual's decision to join the field.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
Section I: Unveiling the Aspiration to Embark on a Medical Career
The journey towards embracing a medical profession such as a doctor is typically shaped by numerous elements, encompassing personal encounters, a deep-rooted desire to serve others, and a profound fascination with science and medicine. It's crucial to understand that this aspiration isn't an overnight phenomenon, but a gradual process, nurtured through diverse healthcare experiences.
Section II: Initial Encounters and Inspirations
A significant number of future doctors often have initial exposure to healthcare environments, either through relatives in the sector or personal experiences with disease or injury. These early interactions can ignite an intrigue and fascination towards the medical field, paving the way for further exploration and ultimate dedication to the doctor's profession.
Section III: Zeal for Serving Others
A burning desire to assist others is a pivotal element of becoming a doctor. Those who opt for this career path usually possess empathetic traits and derive satisfaction from positively impacting people's lives. Personal experiences, such as witnessing a family member battling a disease or receiving outstanding care from a healthcare professional, can further fuel this passion.
Section IV: Fascination with Science and Medicine
A fascination with science and medicine plays a vital role in deciding if one wishes to become a doctor. This interest can be sparked by studying biology or chemistry at school or university, participating in scientific research activities, or engaging in healthcare-related extracurricular activities. As this interest intensifies, individuals may decide to delve deeper into pre-medical studies or enroll in a medical school.
Section V: Devotion and Tenacity
The path to becoming a doctor demands years of unwavering dedication and strenuous effort. Aspiring doctors need to complete undergraduate studies, graduate from medical school, and then finish residency training in their chosen specialty. Throughout this journey, individuals must showcase unwavering commitment and resilience to surmount obstacles and realize their ambitions.
In summary, the choice to become a doctor is multifaceted, influenced by various factors such as initial exposure to healthcare environments, a passion for serving others, and a deep interest in science and medicine. Devotion and tenacity are also vital traits for those venturing into this challenging profession.
Authoritative Reference Titles:
American Medical Association: The AMA offers a wealth of resources and information for budding doctors, including advice on selecting a specialty and navigating the medical education journey. It was referenced to comprehend the general pathway towards becoming a doctor and the various factors influencing this decision.
Association of American Medical Colleges: The AAMC provides insights into medical school admissions, prerequisites, and resources for prospective students. It was referred to gain a comprehensive understanding of the prerequisites and expectations for those embarking on a medical career.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The BLS offers occupational employment statistics and forecasts for various sectors, including healthcare. It was referred to understand the job prospects and demand for physicians in the United States, which can influence an individual's decision to join the field.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.