2 answers
Jabria
Student
New Orleans, Louisiana
1
Question
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I am currently a mechanical engineering major with a minor in biology. I am interested in possibley pursuing a MD. Does it make sense to pursue a post bac in biology or get a masters in biology to aid in preparation for the MCAT?
#medicine,#mechanicalengineering
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2 answers
Brayden Reiland
119
Answers
Corvallis, Oregon
Updated
Brayden’s Answer
Hello!
If I were you I would highly suggest staying with the biology minor as biology is one of the most common degrees for people would are trying to obtain their MD. Not only will it help you in terms of prepping for the MCAT but it will also give you the necessary information for schooling later. I think even going further and trying to take as many biology and chemistry courses as you can will greatly help in the long run and the MCAT is primary focused in those topics. Having the mechanical degree will be an advantage at face value because it will help improve your problem solving and critical analysis skills. I know really the best way to improve your MCAT scores is to take as many practice tests as you can and prepare as much are you can for these long form exams. From people that I know who have taken it, the physical length of the exam is something that becomes quite challenging because as the day progresses you become tired and more likely to miss questions.
Hope this helps!
If I were you I would highly suggest staying with the biology minor as biology is one of the most common degrees for people would are trying to obtain their MD. Not only will it help you in terms of prepping for the MCAT but it will also give you the necessary information for schooling later. I think even going further and trying to take as many biology and chemistry courses as you can will greatly help in the long run and the MCAT is primary focused in those topics. Having the mechanical degree will be an advantage at face value because it will help improve your problem solving and critical analysis skills. I know really the best way to improve your MCAT scores is to take as many practice tests as you can and prepare as much are you can for these long form exams. From people that I know who have taken it, the physical length of the exam is something that becomes quite challenging because as the day progresses you become tired and more likely to miss questions.
Hope this helps!
Howard Schwartz
Mechanical Engineer
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Howard’s Answer
Coincidently, I too started out as a Chemistry major who was required to take a number of courses in other sciences like Biology to either teach High School or become a doctor. In my opinion, you need to really look into your soul and ask what REALLY interests you. Is it something in Mechanical Engineering or perhaps helping people as a medical doctor. Either one will challenge you greatly as a student...but if you are devoted to your efforts... and good enough, you WILL SUCCEED. As a student right now, chances are your interests as well as your major might change as you mature and realize what really motivates you and makes you want to wake up every morning to put in 8 or more hours a day into something you LOVE TO DO. After 2 years of teaching High School Chemistry and Physics, I realized it wasn't for me... so I pursed my other interest, Mechanical Engineering. After 2 years of getting that degree, I felt I NEEDED experience and not go for any advanced degree.. but find a job. I did. I discovered that my love of engineering motivated me every day for 35 years. No regrets here! Therefore, my advice to you is to get some PRACTICAL experience as soon as possible in whatever direction you think you are headed and not get any advanced degree yet... at least not until you know what you really want to do in life. I wish you well in your professional pursuits.