6 answers
Lomewika
Student
Orlando, Florida
2
Questions
Asked
581 views
What do I want to do in Life, and how am I going to succeed?
I'm going to 8th grade this year, I want to be a physician but, don't know how to get there.
What programs am I going to enroll in to get better experience? What type of scholarships I'm going apply for?
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6 answers
Scott Adler
Physician (recently retired)
30
Answers
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Wow, that's impressive! I had no idea what I wanted to be when I was your age, maybe a professional athlete and I went on to become a doctor. If you find yourself drawn to that profession, then let it happen naturally. If you enjoy science and math and like the idea of helping people, great! But you are young and you should enjoy your youth, exploring different experiences and pursuits. There is not one path to becoming a doctor and as you grow and learn more about yourself if you continue to be passionate about the field of medicine, it sounds as though you are the type of person who will find a way to make it happen. Good luck and remember to enjoy the journey!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Lomewika
Rachel Knapp
Project Manager
23
Answers
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hello Lomewika! First off, it's really impressive that you've got such a clear vision for your future at such a young age. Remember, though, you're still quite young and it's perfectly okay if your dreams evolve as you uncover fresh passions and interests during your school journey. Your aspiration to become a doctor may persist even as you advance through school, and if so, you can start engaging in studies and activities that align with your future career. Subjects like math and science are crucial for those interested in medicine, so consider exploring books or joining clubs that focus on these areas. But remember, it's okay to explore other fields too. Be gentle with yourself, and make sure you take the time to enjoy your school days and the joys of youth!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Lomewika
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Mostafa Mohamed Sayed
"Be gentle with yourself, and make sure you take the time to enjoy your school days and the joys of youth!" Excellent advice.
Brad Gosnell
Patricia Berrios
Registered Nurse
13
Answers
Spokane, Washington
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Lomewika, pursuing a career in healthcare is indeed a commendable and challenging path. Here are some actionable steps you can take:
1. Start by exploring online for mentorship and volunteer roles in healthcare or other service-oriented professions.
2. Look for local youth groups that provide exposure to the medical field, similar to boy scouts or girl scouts.
3. Consider learning CPR and first aid. This will not only equip you with a useful skill but also give you a taste of medical care.
4. If you're academically inclined, take up advanced math or science subjects in the next academic year. If not, consider using the summer months to study or seek help from online tutoring sites like Khan Academy.
5. To better understand medical terminology, consider studying Latin if it's available, or start reading basic medical terminology books.
6. Remember to balance your academic pursuits with your hobbies, whether it's music, art, or sports. These activities stimulate different parts of your brain, aiding in problem-solving, teamwork, and independent thinking. They also serve as a healthy way to express yourself and take care of your mental health.
7. Keep in mind that higher education can be costly. Therefore, research scholarships you might be eligible for and prepare for exams like the PSAT, SAT, or ACT. High scores can qualify you for scholar programs at certain universities, covering your tuition fees. National Merit Scholar programs are worth exploring.
8. Develop yourself into a well-rounded, compassionate individual with a passion for helping others and strong leadership skills. These qualities are crucial for medical school admissions.
9. Lastly, consider taking courses that enhance your learning and reading abilities. Techniques that help you learn more effectively or retain more information will be beneficial, regardless of your career choice.
Remember, your journey should be enjoyable and motivating. As you grow into adulthood, it's important to balance work with play.
1. Start by exploring online for mentorship and volunteer roles in healthcare or other service-oriented professions.
2. Look for local youth groups that provide exposure to the medical field, similar to boy scouts or girl scouts.
3. Consider learning CPR and first aid. This will not only equip you with a useful skill but also give you a taste of medical care.
4. If you're academically inclined, take up advanced math or science subjects in the next academic year. If not, consider using the summer months to study or seek help from online tutoring sites like Khan Academy.
5. To better understand medical terminology, consider studying Latin if it's available, or start reading basic medical terminology books.
6. Remember to balance your academic pursuits with your hobbies, whether it's music, art, or sports. These activities stimulate different parts of your brain, aiding in problem-solving, teamwork, and independent thinking. They also serve as a healthy way to express yourself and take care of your mental health.
7. Keep in mind that higher education can be costly. Therefore, research scholarships you might be eligible for and prepare for exams like the PSAT, SAT, or ACT. High scores can qualify you for scholar programs at certain universities, covering your tuition fees. National Merit Scholar programs are worth exploring.
8. Develop yourself into a well-rounded, compassionate individual with a passion for helping others and strong leadership skills. These qualities are crucial for medical school admissions.
9. Lastly, consider taking courses that enhance your learning and reading abilities. Techniques that help you learn more effectively or retain more information will be beneficial, regardless of your career choice.
Remember, your journey should be enjoyable and motivating. As you grow into adulthood, it's important to balance work with play.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Mostafa Mohamed Sayed
Thanks for your advice, I will use them.=)
Lomewika
MARY OLAFUSI
Nursing
24
Answers
Ife, Osun, Nigeria
Updated
MARY’s Answer
It's great that you have a goal to become a physician! To succeed, focus on excelling in your studies, especially in science and math. In high school, take advanced science courses and participate in extracurricular activities related to healthcare. Look for pre-med or science-focused programs in your area, such as summer camps, workshops, or volunteering at hospitals. Scholarships like the "Florida Bright Futures Scholarship" can help with college costs. As you progress, aim for a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, then attend medical school. Stay determined, seek mentorship, and continue exploring opportunities to build a strong foundation for your future career.
Thank you, MARY for the advice.
Mostafa Mohamed Sayed
F. Aquarius Rougely
Pastry Chef | Creative Director | Visual Artist & Designer
1
Answer
San Diego, California
Updated
F. Aquarius’s Answer
Lomewika (and all who may have similar questions about their career path in this chosen profession), I commend you for being bold enough to share your dreams! Hold tight to them and do not let anyone discourage you. Each of us was intentionally created on purpose, with a purpose to solve problems in the Earth, and you are no exception.
From my experience, I have learned to begin any journey with the end in mind; and this is the conceptual road map underpinning the advice I offer to you. You have stated that you want to be a physician, which is definitely a direction in/towards a career path; so, have you considered what type of physician you would like to be? According to an online article, "...'physician' specifically refers to a medical professional who has completed the necessary education and training to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses." And also, "[p]hysicians focus on patient care, have the authority to prescribe medication, and perform medical procedures..."
By definition alone, you may start considering the areas of medicine and treatment that you are passionate about. One tip I can give about finding your passion is in exploring either what excites or angers you most and then, using your gifts, talents, and abilities to serve others in impactful ways to solve specific problems.
If your passion is still unknown to you, consider, evaluate, and decide if you are dreaming about helping to only diagnose and treat patient illnesses, or if you would want to work in the field of medicine & healthcare to study and to find a cure for a specific illness? The latter route could lead you into a different path, like a medical scientist. As a next step, for example, ask yourself if you would want to focus on helping patients suffering from diabetes, autoimmune diseases and disorders, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pulmonary or cardiac diseases, or even something related to the brain?
The human body was created with different and interrelated systems, each with a specific function; and illness and disease is evidence of the breakdown leading to death within the systems. Identifying the system you are most interested to work within may give you insight into a specific area of medicine to consider and/or to focus your volunteering, networking to build relationships, education, and training efforts.
Considering where (and how) you might want to work may also help you narrow your path. Does working in a hospital, a clinic, or a private practice appeal to you more? If the latter, would you want to work in support of or in partnership with someone else or have your own practice?
I implore you to also consider the type of impact that you want to make within this profession. Are you seeking to eventually work locally in your home city, within marginalized communities with demographics of people having limited access and resources to healthcare, treatment, and medicine; or do you want to make a national, or even global impact by maybe even becoming a missionary physician-taking your skills out into foreign nations and helping people in impoverished or underdeveloped countries and areas with a lack of healthcare infrastructure and access to physicians?
Answering these questions may assist you with the direction to head and steps to take to get there.
Since I have zero medical experience, only life experience to offer, I hope that I have been able to give you some things of value to think about. Whenever I approach a major life decision or a new project, I use this similar strategy of beginning with the end in mind and making a road map of all the possibilities I can imagine before I start narrowing the path.
Before I decide to take a specific course of action or go down a certain path, I also consult God by asking His Holy Spirit to guide me because I know He always tells the truth about what is to come (John 16:13 CSB). Whenever I have plans in my heart, I have discovered and experienced that God reveals my path (Psalms 16:11 CSB) and always leads me in the right direction (Proverbs 16:9 CSB) since He knows what is best for me. I understand that because he formed me, He knows the purpose for which He created me; and He knows what I am designed to do in life (Job 10:10, Psalms 139:15, Jeremiah 1:5 NLT) to make the greatest impact to bring Him glory. God knows me better than I know myself, so I follow His lead and will for my life. God knows the plans He has for me. Plans for well-being and to give me a future and hope (Jeremiah 29:11 CSB).
A little over two years ago, I was seeking answers to the questions you posed about life - what to do and which direction to head in. I was navigating a transitional season of life and needed guidance to ensure I was on the right path. Above, I shared insights into my spiritual journey after surrendering and submitting myself to the Lordship of Jesus, because I have experienced that God has been integral to and instrumental in ensuring that I know my life purpose, calling, and assignment; and He provides for and helps me achieve everything I have and do!
I am currently using my creative gifts, talents, and abilities in a profession and career path that I once dreamed of as a child; but somewhere along the way, that dream was either lost, forgotten, or I could have faced criticism or discouragement and hid that dream away. Cultivating a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus, and having intimacy with His Holy Spirit has literally transformed my entire life! Aside from the salvation and healing of my soul and renewing of my spirit, I am here to tell you that I am a living testimony, "... that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them" (Romans 8:28NLT).
Whether or not you decide to bring God into your decision-making process based on your personal belief and faith, I highly encourage you to begin with the end in mind, consider all the possibilities that exist, ask and answer intentional questions that will help in narrowing your focus, develop a plan with methods of implementation and then, strategize to take action.
During the process, remember to enjoy your youth because you will never get that time back once it has passed. May God bless you and keep you!
RESOURCES:
(Online Article about Physicians) https://arthurmarshall.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-doctor-physician-and-a-physician-assistant/#:~:text=While%20all%20physicians%20are%20doctors,range%20of%20disciplines%20beyond%20medicine.
(Scriptures from YouVersion online Bible app)
https://app.bible.com
From my experience, I have learned to begin any journey with the end in mind; and this is the conceptual road map underpinning the advice I offer to you. You have stated that you want to be a physician, which is definitely a direction in/towards a career path; so, have you considered what type of physician you would like to be? According to an online article, "...'physician' specifically refers to a medical professional who has completed the necessary education and training to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses." And also, "[p]hysicians focus on patient care, have the authority to prescribe medication, and perform medical procedures..."
By definition alone, you may start considering the areas of medicine and treatment that you are passionate about. One tip I can give about finding your passion is in exploring either what excites or angers you most and then, using your gifts, talents, and abilities to serve others in impactful ways to solve specific problems.
If your passion is still unknown to you, consider, evaluate, and decide if you are dreaming about helping to only diagnose and treat patient illnesses, or if you would want to work in the field of medicine & healthcare to study and to find a cure for a specific illness? The latter route could lead you into a different path, like a medical scientist. As a next step, for example, ask yourself if you would want to focus on helping patients suffering from diabetes, autoimmune diseases and disorders, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pulmonary or cardiac diseases, or even something related to the brain?
The human body was created with different and interrelated systems, each with a specific function; and illness and disease is evidence of the breakdown leading to death within the systems. Identifying the system you are most interested to work within may give you insight into a specific area of medicine to consider and/or to focus your volunteering, networking to build relationships, education, and training efforts.
Considering where (and how) you might want to work may also help you narrow your path. Does working in a hospital, a clinic, or a private practice appeal to you more? If the latter, would you want to work in support of or in partnership with someone else or have your own practice?
I implore you to also consider the type of impact that you want to make within this profession. Are you seeking to eventually work locally in your home city, within marginalized communities with demographics of people having limited access and resources to healthcare, treatment, and medicine; or do you want to make a national, or even global impact by maybe even becoming a missionary physician-taking your skills out into foreign nations and helping people in impoverished or underdeveloped countries and areas with a lack of healthcare infrastructure and access to physicians?
Answering these questions may assist you with the direction to head and steps to take to get there.
Since I have zero medical experience, only life experience to offer, I hope that I have been able to give you some things of value to think about. Whenever I approach a major life decision or a new project, I use this similar strategy of beginning with the end in mind and making a road map of all the possibilities I can imagine before I start narrowing the path.
Before I decide to take a specific course of action or go down a certain path, I also consult God by asking His Holy Spirit to guide me because I know He always tells the truth about what is to come (John 16:13 CSB). Whenever I have plans in my heart, I have discovered and experienced that God reveals my path (Psalms 16:11 CSB) and always leads me in the right direction (Proverbs 16:9 CSB) since He knows what is best for me. I understand that because he formed me, He knows the purpose for which He created me; and He knows what I am designed to do in life (Job 10:10, Psalms 139:15, Jeremiah 1:5 NLT) to make the greatest impact to bring Him glory. God knows me better than I know myself, so I follow His lead and will for my life. God knows the plans He has for me. Plans for well-being and to give me a future and hope (Jeremiah 29:11 CSB).
A little over two years ago, I was seeking answers to the questions you posed about life - what to do and which direction to head in. I was navigating a transitional season of life and needed guidance to ensure I was on the right path. Above, I shared insights into my spiritual journey after surrendering and submitting myself to the Lordship of Jesus, because I have experienced that God has been integral to and instrumental in ensuring that I know my life purpose, calling, and assignment; and He provides for and helps me achieve everything I have and do!
I am currently using my creative gifts, talents, and abilities in a profession and career path that I once dreamed of as a child; but somewhere along the way, that dream was either lost, forgotten, or I could have faced criticism or discouragement and hid that dream away. Cultivating a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus, and having intimacy with His Holy Spirit has literally transformed my entire life! Aside from the salvation and healing of my soul and renewing of my spirit, I am here to tell you that I am a living testimony, "... that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them" (Romans 8:28NLT).
Whether or not you decide to bring God into your decision-making process based on your personal belief and faith, I highly encourage you to begin with the end in mind, consider all the possibilities that exist, ask and answer intentional questions that will help in narrowing your focus, develop a plan with methods of implementation and then, strategize to take action.
During the process, remember to enjoy your youth because you will never get that time back once it has passed. May God bless you and keep you!
RESOURCES:
(Online Article about Physicians) https://arthurmarshall.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-doctor-physician-and-a-physician-assistant/#:~:text=While%20all%20physicians%20are%20doctors,range%20of%20disciplines%20beyond%20medicine.
(Scriptures from YouVersion online Bible app)
https://app.bible.com
Emmanuel M'bra
English and French Tutor, Screenwriter, Evangelist
17
Answers
Abidjan, Lagunes Region, Côte d'Ivoire
Updated
Emmanuel’s Answer
Hello Lomewika,
Thank you for your question. It is so great to hear you talking about your future job. If you aspire to be a Physician, I encourage and advise you to start working hard in Physics or Chemistry, read more about that field, follow courses about it.
Let me assure you that the secret is to "do what you love"
You, you have chosen Physics, so to get experiences in it, try to proceed your studies in surgery, medecine or other domains related to it.
And let me reassure you that you will succeed and be a great physician.
God bless you and good luck
Thank you for your question. It is so great to hear you talking about your future job. If you aspire to be a Physician, I encourage and advise you to start working hard in Physics or Chemistry, read more about that field, follow courses about it.
Let me assure you that the secret is to "do what you love"
You, you have chosen Physics, so to get experiences in it, try to proceed your studies in surgery, medecine or other domains related to it.
And let me reassure you that you will succeed and be a great physician.
God bless you and good luck