6 answers
CareerVillage Office Hours
Student
Palo Alto, California
502
Questions
Asked
961 views
I am interested in the medical field, but I am not sure if I really like it, and if it the right for me. ?
I am currently a college student, and I am in a Liberal Arts major so far, and it's time for me to choose a major to study when I transfer to another college. How do I know if the medical field is for me?
Note: this question was anonymously by a student
Login to comment
6 answers
Raquel Davis
Registered Nurse, premed student
148
Answers
Providence, Rhode Island
Updated
Raquel’s Answer
There are so many jobs available within the medical field. The best way to figure out if any of them are a good fit for you is to talk to people and shadow different jobs. You can gain a lot of insight by spending a few hours with someone because you get to see what the day to day work is. There is so much available, it can be overwhelming. I would look online at various medical jobs to narrow down what you think you may be interested in, then reach out to local hospitals/offices to see if you can shadow. Most places are very open to it. I know a lot of people who originally wanted to be one thing in the medical field, shadowed for a bit, and while doing so found a different job within the medical field that is a perfect fit for them.
John Levesque
Clinical Quality Nurse
84
Answers
Waterville, Maine
Updated
John’s Answer
If you're thinking about working in the medical field, then it might be helpful to talk with people who already do. Try to expand your discussions beyond physicians and nurses to include jobs like radiation technologists, lab techs, respiratory therapists, physical & occupational therapists, and paramedics & emergency medical technicians. You may also want to consider other areas that may not be a first consideration like insurance companies which also tend to pay well and let you work remotely.
There's no shortage of need for people in the medical field and they are needed in almost all roles. But do some research and see if something sounds like it will be a good fit for you.
Best of luck.
There's no shortage of need for people in the medical field and they are needed in almost all roles. But do some research and see if something sounds like it will be a good fit for you.
Best of luck.
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
Choosing a career path can be a challenging decision, especially when it comes to fields as diverse and demanding as the medical field. It's important to carefully consider your interests, skills, and values before committing to a specific career path. While no one can definitively tell you if the medical field is right for you, there are several steps you can take to gain a better understanding of whether it aligns with your aspirations and goals.
1. Self-reflection: Start by reflecting on your own interests, values, and strengths. Consider what aspects of the medical field appeal to you. Are you genuinely interested in helping others? Do you enjoy problem-solving and critical thinking? Are you comfortable with science and technology? Assessing your personal qualities and preferences can provide valuable insights into whether the medical field is a good fit for you.
2. Research: Take the time to thoroughly research the different careers within the medical field. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of the various roles, responsibilities, and educational requirements associated with each profession. Explore different specialties such as nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, or medical research. Look into the day-to-day tasks involved in each role and consider whether they align with your interests and goals.
3. Gain practical experience: To truly gauge your interest in the medical field, it's crucial to gain hands-on experience. Consider volunteering at a local hospital or clinic to observe healthcare professionals in action. This will give you an opportunity to see firsthand what it's like to work in a medical setting and interact with patients. Additionally, try shadowing professionals in different specialties to get a sense of their daily routines and challenges.
4. Talk to professionals: Reach out to professionals who are currently working in the medical field or have experience in the areas you are interested in pursuing. Conduct informational interviews or attend career fairs where you can engage with healthcare professionals and ask them questions about their experiences. Their insights and advice can provide valuable guidance in your decision-making process.
5. Consider your lifestyle preferences: It's important to consider the lifestyle that comes with a career in the medical field. Many healthcare professions require long hours, irregular schedules, and high levels of stress. Reflect on whether you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices and adjustments to accommodate these demands.
6. Seek guidance from academic advisors: Consult with academic advisors at your current college or university, as well as at the colleges you are considering transferring to. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements and prerequisites for different medical programs, as well as offer insights into the career prospects and opportunities available in the field.
Remember, choosing a career is a personal decision that should be based on your own interests, values, and goals. Take the time to explore and gather information about the medical field before making a final decision. It's also important to keep in mind that career paths can evolve over time, and it's not uncommon for individuals to switch careers or pursue additional education later in life.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.org
2. American Medical Association - www.ama-assn.org
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - www.bls.gov
1. Self-reflection: Start by reflecting on your own interests, values, and strengths. Consider what aspects of the medical field appeal to you. Are you genuinely interested in helping others? Do you enjoy problem-solving and critical thinking? Are you comfortable with science and technology? Assessing your personal qualities and preferences can provide valuable insights into whether the medical field is a good fit for you.
2. Research: Take the time to thoroughly research the different careers within the medical field. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of the various roles, responsibilities, and educational requirements associated with each profession. Explore different specialties such as nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, or medical research. Look into the day-to-day tasks involved in each role and consider whether they align with your interests and goals.
3. Gain practical experience: To truly gauge your interest in the medical field, it's crucial to gain hands-on experience. Consider volunteering at a local hospital or clinic to observe healthcare professionals in action. This will give you an opportunity to see firsthand what it's like to work in a medical setting and interact with patients. Additionally, try shadowing professionals in different specialties to get a sense of their daily routines and challenges.
4. Talk to professionals: Reach out to professionals who are currently working in the medical field or have experience in the areas you are interested in pursuing. Conduct informational interviews or attend career fairs where you can engage with healthcare professionals and ask them questions about their experiences. Their insights and advice can provide valuable guidance in your decision-making process.
5. Consider your lifestyle preferences: It's important to consider the lifestyle that comes with a career in the medical field. Many healthcare professions require long hours, irregular schedules, and high levels of stress. Reflect on whether you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices and adjustments to accommodate these demands.
6. Seek guidance from academic advisors: Consult with academic advisors at your current college or university, as well as at the colleges you are considering transferring to. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements and prerequisites for different medical programs, as well as offer insights into the career prospects and opportunities available in the field.
Remember, choosing a career is a personal decision that should be based on your own interests, values, and goals. Take the time to explore and gather information about the medical field before making a final decision. It's also important to keep in mind that career paths can evolve over time, and it's not uncommon for individuals to switch careers or pursue additional education later in life.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.org
2. American Medical Association - www.ama-assn.org
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - www.bls.gov
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
Dear CVOH,
Navigating Your Potential in the Healthcare Sector
If you're contemplating a career in healthcare, here's an actionable plan to help you evaluate your suitability and passion for this field:
1. Understand the Healthcare Landscape: Start by investigating various roles in healthcare. Familiarize yourself with the diverse specialties, responsibilities, work settings, and educational prerequisites for each role. This will give you a well-rounded understanding of what a career in healthcare involves.
2. Acquire Real-World Exposure: Think about volunteering or observing professionals in healthcare. This direct experience will offer valuable insights into the everyday tasks of healthcare professionals and help you assess your enthusiasm for following a similar career.
3. Assess Your Aptitudes and Passions: Evaluate your strengths, passions, and values to see if they match with a healthcare career. Consider if you have key traits like empathy, excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and a sincere wish to assist others – all crucial for success in healthcare.
4. Connect with Mentors: Connect with teachers, counselors, or healthcare professionals for advice. Their personal experiences can provide invaluable guidance, helping you make a well-informed decision about a healthcare career.
5. Investigate Academic Routes: Look into various educational programs related to healthcare, such as pre-med courses, nursing programs, or allied health degrees. Consider consulting with academic counselors to see how your current Liberal Arts major can be tailored to a future healthcare career.
6. Explore Job Shadowing: Join job shadowing programs offered by hospitals or healthcare institutions to watch healthcare professionals in action. This firsthand exposure can give you a realistic glimpse of working in healthcare.
7. Reflect on Your Future Goals: Think about your long-term career aspirations. Determine if a healthcare career aligns with your professional goals and offers opportunities for progression, advancement, and personal satisfaction.
By taking these steps and actively participating in exploration and reflection, you can gain a clearer perspective on whether a healthcare career is the right choice for your academic and professional journey.
Top 3 Credible References Used:
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA is a reliable source for information on medical careers, educational prerequisites, specialty options, and resources for budding healthcare professionals.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on various healthcare jobs, including job prospects, median wages, educational prerequisites, and key industry trends that can assist individuals in evaluating their fit for a healthcare career.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC provides valuable insights into medical education routes, admission processes for medical schools, research opportunities, and resources for students considering a future in medicine.
May God Bless You!
James.
Navigating Your Potential in the Healthcare Sector
If you're contemplating a career in healthcare, here's an actionable plan to help you evaluate your suitability and passion for this field:
1. Understand the Healthcare Landscape: Start by investigating various roles in healthcare. Familiarize yourself with the diverse specialties, responsibilities, work settings, and educational prerequisites for each role. This will give you a well-rounded understanding of what a career in healthcare involves.
2. Acquire Real-World Exposure: Think about volunteering or observing professionals in healthcare. This direct experience will offer valuable insights into the everyday tasks of healthcare professionals and help you assess your enthusiasm for following a similar career.
3. Assess Your Aptitudes and Passions: Evaluate your strengths, passions, and values to see if they match with a healthcare career. Consider if you have key traits like empathy, excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and a sincere wish to assist others – all crucial for success in healthcare.
4. Connect with Mentors: Connect with teachers, counselors, or healthcare professionals for advice. Their personal experiences can provide invaluable guidance, helping you make a well-informed decision about a healthcare career.
5. Investigate Academic Routes: Look into various educational programs related to healthcare, such as pre-med courses, nursing programs, or allied health degrees. Consider consulting with academic counselors to see how your current Liberal Arts major can be tailored to a future healthcare career.
6. Explore Job Shadowing: Join job shadowing programs offered by hospitals or healthcare institutions to watch healthcare professionals in action. This firsthand exposure can give you a realistic glimpse of working in healthcare.
7. Reflect on Your Future Goals: Think about your long-term career aspirations. Determine if a healthcare career aligns with your professional goals and offers opportunities for progression, advancement, and personal satisfaction.
By taking these steps and actively participating in exploration and reflection, you can gain a clearer perspective on whether a healthcare career is the right choice for your academic and professional journey.
Top 3 Credible References Used:
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA is a reliable source for information on medical careers, educational prerequisites, specialty options, and resources for budding healthcare professionals.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on various healthcare jobs, including job prospects, median wages, educational prerequisites, and key industry trends that can assist individuals in evaluating their fit for a healthcare career.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC provides valuable insights into medical education routes, admission processes for medical schools, research opportunities, and resources for students considering a future in medicine.
May God Bless You!
James.
Candace Bartley MPH, BSN, RN, CCM
Registered Nurse
14
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Candace’s Answer
There are so many areas in healthcare. I was a career changer nurse. I say just start with an area your comfortable in. Then if you need to change careers do so. Many have a path that is varied but still get to the goal. For example I have a friend who was a phlebotomist and took a course to be certified and then when on to major in nursing.
It's okay not to know just keep learning and trying.
What areas are you interested in?
It's okay not to know just keep learning and trying.
What areas are you interested in?
Midwest Heart Surgeon
Cardiac surgeon
57
Answers
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Updated
Midwest’s Answer
Great question! The first step is narrowing down what part of the medical field you may be interested. The best and arguably only way to truly figure out if the medical field is right for you is to talk to numerous people in the medical field and immerse yourself in it, physically. This can be achieved in many different ways.
One option is to volunteer at a local hospital. Almost every hospital has a volunteer page and have various opportunities you could choose from in order to gain exposure to different roles within the medical field. There are next steps to pursue a career in the medical field but it truly depends on which role interests you the most. If you end up wishing to pursue medical school, you can do so through any college major as long as you have done well academically, but will need to make sure you take the prerequisite science courses to qualify to apply.
Another option would be to try to get a position part-time or during the summer as a medical scribe. This role would allow you to gain exposure to multiple roles in the medical field, including physician, nurse practitioner, nurse, medical assistant, and others. A third option is to seek out individual shadowing opportunities within healthcare settings.
No matter what choice you make, get exposure to the medical field and then speak to as many individuals as you possible can who are in the role that interests you.
Hope this helps!
Explore local volunteering opportunities at hospitals
Look for a medical scribe position
Talk to students and others already in the medical field
One option is to volunteer at a local hospital. Almost every hospital has a volunteer page and have various opportunities you could choose from in order to gain exposure to different roles within the medical field. There are next steps to pursue a career in the medical field but it truly depends on which role interests you the most. If you end up wishing to pursue medical school, you can do so through any college major as long as you have done well academically, but will need to make sure you take the prerequisite science courses to qualify to apply.
Another option would be to try to get a position part-time or during the summer as a medical scribe. This role would allow you to gain exposure to multiple roles in the medical field, including physician, nurse practitioner, nurse, medical assistant, and others. A third option is to seek out individual shadowing opportunities within healthcare settings.
No matter what choice you make, get exposure to the medical field and then speak to as many individuals as you possible can who are in the role that interests you.
Hope this helps!
Midwest recommends the following next steps: