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How can you become a doctor and what undergraduate degrees would be good for it?
I am a freshman in high school and I am thinking about pursuing a major that would lead me to become a doctor. I don't know what kind of doctor, though.
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Raquel’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking ahead already! Getting into medical school is a long journey and takes a lot of hard work, but is so worth it if it's what you want to do! You can get any major and get into medical school. Most people focus on either biology or chemistry because you will get all of the medical prerequisite classes as a part of your degree, plus some other classes that will benefit you in med school and on the MCAT. But, so long as you take all of the required classes, it doesn't matter what your degree is. I know people with engineering, psychology, pharmacy, and public health degrees who are all in med school. No matter what major you pick though you need to do well in it. Getting in is very competitive and the average accepted GPA is 3.7. It will also help you on the entrance exam, the MCAT, if you learn the material in your classes well, that way you don't have to relearn as much when you study for the exam.
There is more to applying than just grades and MCAT scores. School's want well-rounded applicants and there's a lot that goes into that. You want to get good volunteer experience. Something within the medical field as well as something outside of it are preferable. For example, most hospitals have volunteer programs. You can also search online volunteer opportunities near you, or your school probably has a list of local organizations. You want to make sure these are meaningful experiences that you can talk about on your application. You will also need to get research experience and if you want to go to a high level school you will want some publications as well. You also need leadership experience, this can easily be gained through getting on the board of a club. Finally you'll want to find physicians you can spend time shadowing. This is important both for you personally along with your application. It is making sure that you get to see the reality of working as a doctor and that it is the right fit for you. There are people every year who drop out of medical school, which is really unfortunate to have put all the time, effort, and money in to ultimately decide it's not for you. So shadowing as much as possible will really help you to make the best informed decision on if medical school is right for you.
I know this is a lot of information, but you have plenty of time. Best of luck!
There is more to applying than just grades and MCAT scores. School's want well-rounded applicants and there's a lot that goes into that. You want to get good volunteer experience. Something within the medical field as well as something outside of it are preferable. For example, most hospitals have volunteer programs. You can also search online volunteer opportunities near you, or your school probably has a list of local organizations. You want to make sure these are meaningful experiences that you can talk about on your application. You will also need to get research experience and if you want to go to a high level school you will want some publications as well. You also need leadership experience, this can easily be gained through getting on the board of a club. Finally you'll want to find physicians you can spend time shadowing. This is important both for you personally along with your application. It is making sure that you get to see the reality of working as a doctor and that it is the right fit for you. There are people every year who drop out of medical school, which is really unfortunate to have put all the time, effort, and money in to ultimately decide it's not for you. So shadowing as much as possible will really help you to make the best informed decision on if medical school is right for you.
I know this is a lot of information, but you have plenty of time. Best of luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Julia
Updated
Lyn’s Answer
To provide a more comprehensive answer, aspiring doctors should consider pursuing an undergraduate degree in any of the biological sciences, such as biology, biochemistry, or even chemistry. These disciplines will provide a solid foundation in the basic sciences required for medical school.
In addition to a major in a science-related field, it is beneficial to consider pursuing a minor in psychology, sociology, the humanities, or another subject that interests you. This will help ensure that you develop a well-rounded education and skills which will prove valuable in interacting with diverse patient populations.
Moreover, having knowledge in these areas may also provide a unique perspective to your approach to patient care. Medical professionals need to be able to understand and empathize with patients, possessing not only technical expertise but also the emotional intelligence to communicate and support individuals from various backgrounds.
To gain practical experience and test your passion for medicine, seek out volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, or other venues where patient contact is involved. Such experiences will not only provide insight into the day-to-day life of a medical professional but also enhance your resume and make you a more competitive candidate for medical school admission.
Furthermore, don't forget to maintain a strong academic record, as well as engage in extracurricular activities and community involvement. These will demonstrate your dedication, leadership, and ability to balance multiple responsibilities. Keep in mind that while the prospect of a high income in the medical field may be appealing, the journey to achieving this goal can be long and challenging. Thus, it is crucial to reflect on your motivation and commitment to this profession from the very beginning.
Lastly, it is also worth considering shadowing or networking with practicing physicians to learn more about the realities of the profession and explore different specialties. This will allow you to make informed decisions about the direction and focus of your medical career.
In addition to a major in a science-related field, it is beneficial to consider pursuing a minor in psychology, sociology, the humanities, or another subject that interests you. This will help ensure that you develop a well-rounded education and skills which will prove valuable in interacting with diverse patient populations.
Moreover, having knowledge in these areas may also provide a unique perspective to your approach to patient care. Medical professionals need to be able to understand and empathize with patients, possessing not only technical expertise but also the emotional intelligence to communicate and support individuals from various backgrounds.
To gain practical experience and test your passion for medicine, seek out volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, or other venues where patient contact is involved. Such experiences will not only provide insight into the day-to-day life of a medical professional but also enhance your resume and make you a more competitive candidate for medical school admission.
Furthermore, don't forget to maintain a strong academic record, as well as engage in extracurricular activities and community involvement. These will demonstrate your dedication, leadership, and ability to balance multiple responsibilities. Keep in mind that while the prospect of a high income in the medical field may be appealing, the journey to achieving this goal can be long and challenging. Thus, it is crucial to reflect on your motivation and commitment to this profession from the very beginning.
Lastly, it is also worth considering shadowing or networking with practicing physicians to learn more about the realities of the profession and explore different specialties. This will allow you to make informed decisions about the direction and focus of your medical career.
Loved reading this, thanks!
Julia
Updated
Rita’s Answer
You can pursue any major. Most doctors major in one of the sciences but I did have a fellow medical student major in English. You just need to take required classes like Biology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics and Calculus. If you major in a science you may be able to do better on the MCAT test.
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Julia