5 answers
Natalie
Student
Hamilton, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
3946 views
For the people in pre-med... what is the best schools to apply to?
I want to go into neurosurgery so I want a good pre med program but also not have to pay a million dollars for it.
Login to comment
5 answers
Michel Davis
Medical student
171
Answers
Cranston, Rhode Island
Updated
Michel’s Answer
The end goal is the important part here. You can go to practically any school to get into medical school, but some connections are going to be better than others. If you want to go into Neurosurgery you will want to go to a good medical school. To go to a good medical school you will need good grades, good extracurricular activities, good volunteering, good letters of rec, good shadowing, good research, and a good entrance exam score. That being said I went to a state school and was able to get into a good medical school and this does happen, but it is a little bit harder. When I was interviewing I was interviewing with people who went to Ivy league schools, Stanford, UCLA, and other really big schools, and it was intimidating. Going to a better school will give you better access to good counselors for medical school. My counselor on multiple occasions told me that my app wasn’t strong enough and that I would be lucky to get into medical school because I didn’t have ties. I ended up getting interviewed at 7 places and accepted at 6 and being able to choose the school that I wanted. I have heard other people who went to better schools who ended up having someone work on their application and find weak points and guiding them to what they need to fix on their application. This all being said yes college education is expensive there is no doubt about that, but if you are going to a good school it is going to give you a better opportunity to reach the goal of neurosurgery which has an average salary of 600k or so which is one year of work to pay off all of your loans. I personally think if you have the ability to go to a better school to take it because those better schools will give you much better opportunities. Great question and you got this. Having this kind of drive at your age is absolutely amazing. Keep it up and you will do amazing.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Stella
Pamela Neff
Gynecologist
38
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Pamela’s Answer
Hi Natalie,
Ohio State is a great school with a strong reputation, and since it’s a public university in the state where you live, it will be less costly to attend. You can also compare out-of-state tuition for public universities in neighboring states (Penn State for example) with the cost of attending private colleges in Ohio (like Case Western and Oberlin). Either way, if you want to go into neurosurgery you will quickly be able to repay the cost of tuition. It’s one of the higher paying specialties.
Hope this helps.
Pam
Ohio State is a great school with a strong reputation, and since it’s a public university in the state where you live, it will be less costly to attend. You can also compare out-of-state tuition for public universities in neighboring states (Penn State for example) with the cost of attending private colleges in Ohio (like Case Western and Oberlin). Either way, if you want to go into neurosurgery you will quickly be able to repay the cost of tuition. It’s one of the higher paying specialties.
Hope this helps.
Pam
Rita Chuang
Physician
206
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
Honestly premedical education does not matter. What I learned in undergraduate school did not help me in medical school. Just go to a decent undergraduate program and focus on getting into medical school. You will learn in medical school and residency.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Natalie!
Best Pre-Med Schools for Aspiring Neurosurgeons
When considering the best schools for pre-med programs, especially with a focus on neurosurgery, it is essential to evaluate several factors: academic reputation, research opportunities, clinical exposure, and affordability. Below is a comprehensive overview of some of the top institutions that offer strong pre-med programs without exorbitant tuition fees.
1. Public Universities with Strong Pre-Med Programs
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA is renowned for its rigorous pre-med curriculum and offers numerous resources for aspiring medical students. The university has a strong emphasis on research and provides access to various healthcare facilities where students can gain clinical experience. Additionally, UCLA’s in-state tuition is relatively affordable compared to private institutions.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan boasts a highly regarded pre-med program with extensive research opportunities in neuroscience. The university’s medical school is consistently ranked among the top in the nation, providing undergraduates with pathways to engage in meaningful research and internships. In-state tuition is also competitive.
University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a solid pre-med track with an emphasis on undergraduate research and community service. The affordability of its tuition makes it an attractive option for many students. The university has partnerships with local hospitals that allow students to gain valuable clinical experience.
2. Private Universities Offering Financial Aid
Johns Hopkins University
While Johns Hopkins is known for its high tuition costs, it also offers substantial financial aid packages that can make attending more affordable for qualified students. The university has one of the best medical schools in the country and provides excellent resources for undergraduate pre-med students interested in neurosurgery.
Duke University
Duke’s pre-med program is well-respected and offers unique opportunities for undergraduate research in neuroscience through its partnership with Duke Medical School. Although tuition can be high, Duke provides generous financial aid options based on need.
3. Liberal Arts Colleges with Strong Science Programs
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore may not be as large as other universities but has an excellent reputation for preparing students for medical school through its rigorous science curriculum and small class sizes. Students receive personalized attention from faculty members who are often involved in cutting-edge research.
Amherst College
Amherst College offers a strong liberal arts education with robust science programs that prepare students well for medical school applications. Its focus on undergraduate education ensures that students have access to faculty mentorship and research opportunities.
4. Considerations Beyond Rankings
When selecting a pre-med program, consider these additional factors:
Research Opportunities: Look for schools that provide access to labs or hospitals where you can participate in neuroscience-related projects.
Clinical Experience: Ensure there are ample opportunities to shadow doctors or work in healthcare settings.
Advising Services: A good advising system can significantly impact your application process to medical schools.
Student Organizations: Active pre-med clubs or organizations can provide networking opportunities and support throughout your journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pre-med program requires careful consideration of various factors including academic quality, financial implications, and personal fit. Institutions like UCLA, University of Michigan, Johns Hopkins, and Swarthmore College stand out due to their strong programs tailored towards aspiring medical professionals while also offering reasonable financial options.
By evaluating these aspects thoroughly, you will be better positioned to select a school that aligns with your career goals in neurosurgery without incurring overwhelming debt.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report
College Board
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC)
These sources provided insights into rankings, financial aid information, and details about undergraduate programs geared toward future medical professionals.
God Bless You!
JC.
Best Pre-Med Schools for Aspiring Neurosurgeons
When considering the best schools for pre-med programs, especially with a focus on neurosurgery, it is essential to evaluate several factors: academic reputation, research opportunities, clinical exposure, and affordability. Below is a comprehensive overview of some of the top institutions that offer strong pre-med programs without exorbitant tuition fees.
1. Public Universities with Strong Pre-Med Programs
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA is renowned for its rigorous pre-med curriculum and offers numerous resources for aspiring medical students. The university has a strong emphasis on research and provides access to various healthcare facilities where students can gain clinical experience. Additionally, UCLA’s in-state tuition is relatively affordable compared to private institutions.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan boasts a highly regarded pre-med program with extensive research opportunities in neuroscience. The university’s medical school is consistently ranked among the top in the nation, providing undergraduates with pathways to engage in meaningful research and internships. In-state tuition is also competitive.
University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a solid pre-med track with an emphasis on undergraduate research and community service. The affordability of its tuition makes it an attractive option for many students. The university has partnerships with local hospitals that allow students to gain valuable clinical experience.
2. Private Universities Offering Financial Aid
Johns Hopkins University
While Johns Hopkins is known for its high tuition costs, it also offers substantial financial aid packages that can make attending more affordable for qualified students. The university has one of the best medical schools in the country and provides excellent resources for undergraduate pre-med students interested in neurosurgery.
Duke University
Duke’s pre-med program is well-respected and offers unique opportunities for undergraduate research in neuroscience through its partnership with Duke Medical School. Although tuition can be high, Duke provides generous financial aid options based on need.
3. Liberal Arts Colleges with Strong Science Programs
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore may not be as large as other universities but has an excellent reputation for preparing students for medical school through its rigorous science curriculum and small class sizes. Students receive personalized attention from faculty members who are often involved in cutting-edge research.
Amherst College
Amherst College offers a strong liberal arts education with robust science programs that prepare students well for medical school applications. Its focus on undergraduate education ensures that students have access to faculty mentorship and research opportunities.
4. Considerations Beyond Rankings
When selecting a pre-med program, consider these additional factors:
Research Opportunities: Look for schools that provide access to labs or hospitals where you can participate in neuroscience-related projects.
Clinical Experience: Ensure there are ample opportunities to shadow doctors or work in healthcare settings.
Advising Services: A good advising system can significantly impact your application process to medical schools.
Student Organizations: Active pre-med clubs or organizations can provide networking opportunities and support throughout your journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pre-med program requires careful consideration of various factors including academic quality, financial implications, and personal fit. Institutions like UCLA, University of Michigan, Johns Hopkins, and Swarthmore College stand out due to their strong programs tailored towards aspiring medical professionals while also offering reasonable financial options.
By evaluating these aspects thoroughly, you will be better positioned to select a school that aligns with your career goals in neurosurgery without incurring overwhelming debt.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report
College Board
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC)
These sources provided insights into rankings, financial aid information, and details about undergraduate programs geared toward future medical professionals.
God Bless You!
JC.
Lesly Beltran
EMT and Medical Assistant
102
Answers
West Palm Beach, Florida
Updated
Lesly’s Answer
Hello! Each school possesses its own special qualities and provides various opportunities. Nevertheless, the top 7 exceptional medical schools include: Harvard University, Duke University, University of Pennsylvania, Washington University in St. Louis, Rice University, Stanford University, and Northwestern University. Wishing you the best of luck!