8 answers
Lily
Student
Aiken, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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What should I start doing in middle school if I want to become an anesthesiologist?
What should I start doing in middle school (8th grade) if I want to become an anesthesiologist? What high-school credits are essential? I already have algebra 1, geometry, and English 1.
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8 answers
Scott Adler
Physician (recently retired)
30
Answers
Langhorne, Pennsylvania
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Hi Lily! I am a general internist so I know what it takes to get into medical school. Good for you that you think becoming an anesthesiologist is the field for you. In general, you certainly need to maintain excellent grades throughout high school and college as well as have interesting and meaningful extracurricular activities in order to get into medical school. It is not necessary to study only science and math though there are some required courses for medical school acceptance in college. You are young and while it is admirable that you have such a worthy goal do not be afraid to explore other areas to see what other fields you find interesting. When applying to medical school having a well-rounded resume is a plus as well. Good luck!
Abu Sanni
Health information manager
10
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Abu’s Answer
To become an anesthesiologist, you should start building a strong educational foundation in middle school and beyond. Here are some steps to consider:
1. Focus on your academics: Pay attention to your schoolwork and aim for excellent grades in math and science courses, as these are crucial for a medical career.
2. Develop good study habits: Establish effective study routines and time management skills to excel in your coursework.
3. Volunteer and extracurricular activities: Join science clubs or organizations, and consider volunteering at hospitals or medical facilities to gain exposure to the healthcare field.
4. Maintain a well-rounded education: While science is important, don't neglect other subjects like English and social studies. Strong communication and critical thinking skills are valuable in the medical field.
5. Set goals and stay motivated: Keep your long-term goal of becoming an anesthesiologist in mind and stay motivated throughout your educational journey.
6. Seek mentorship: Connect with teachers or adults in the medical field who can provide guidance and advice on pursuing a medical career.
7. Plan for high school: Choose a high school with a strong science program and consider taking advanced courses like AP or IB classes.
8. Start thinking about college: Research colleges and universities with pre-med programs, and work toward maintaining a high GPA and preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
9. Gain exposure to healthcare: Consider shadowing healthcare professionals, attending medical camps, or participating in medical-related internships during high school.
10. Stay informed: Keep up to date with advancements in medicine and healthcare, and continue exploring your interest in anesthesiology through reading and research.
Remember that becoming an anesthesiologist is a long and challenging journey that requires dedication and hard work. Stay focused on your goals, and don't be afraid to seek guidance from mentors and educators along the way.
1. Focus on your academics: Pay attention to your schoolwork and aim for excellent grades in math and science courses, as these are crucial for a medical career.
2. Develop good study habits: Establish effective study routines and time management skills to excel in your coursework.
3. Volunteer and extracurricular activities: Join science clubs or organizations, and consider volunteering at hospitals or medical facilities to gain exposure to the healthcare field.
4. Maintain a well-rounded education: While science is important, don't neglect other subjects like English and social studies. Strong communication and critical thinking skills are valuable in the medical field.
5. Set goals and stay motivated: Keep your long-term goal of becoming an anesthesiologist in mind and stay motivated throughout your educational journey.
6. Seek mentorship: Connect with teachers or adults in the medical field who can provide guidance and advice on pursuing a medical career.
7. Plan for high school: Choose a high school with a strong science program and consider taking advanced courses like AP or IB classes.
8. Start thinking about college: Research colleges and universities with pre-med programs, and work toward maintaining a high GPA and preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
9. Gain exposure to healthcare: Consider shadowing healthcare professionals, attending medical camps, or participating in medical-related internships during high school.
10. Stay informed: Keep up to date with advancements in medicine and healthcare, and continue exploring your interest in anesthesiology through reading and research.
Remember that becoming an anesthesiologist is a long and challenging journey that requires dedication and hard work. Stay focused on your goals, and don't be afraid to seek guidance from mentors and educators along the way.
Thanks for the advice.
Antonina
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hi Lily,
You can start taking biology and medicine classes in general. But what refers to the specifics of your chosen field, I think it's good to begin with online courses to get prepared for further study. Then there will be a necessity to get a degree in medicine with the relevant specialization.
You can start taking biology and medicine classes in general. But what refers to the specifics of your chosen field, I think it's good to begin with online courses to get prepared for further study. Then there will be a necessity to get a degree in medicine with the relevant specialization.
Thank you!
Antonina
Mike Qiao
28
Answers
Updated
Mike’s Answer
If you aspire to become an anesthesiologist, it's great that you're thinking about your career path early. Here are some steps you can take in middle school (8th grade) and high school to prepare for this profession:
**Middle School (8th Grade):
Focus on Core Subjects: Continue to excel in your core subjects such as math, science, and English. A strong foundation in these subjects is essential for success in high school and college.
Develop Study Habits: Start building effective study habits. Anesthesiology requires a rigorous education, so developing good study skills early will benefit you in the long run.
Participate in Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs, sports teams, or other extracurricular activities that interest you. These experiences can help you develop teamwork, leadership, and time management skills.
Volunteer: Consider volunteering in your community or at a local hospital. Even at a young age, you can get exposure to healthcare environments and start to gain an understanding of the field.
**High School:
Course Selection: Plan your high school coursework carefully. Focus on taking advanced courses in science and math, as these will be crucial for your pre-medical education. Essential high school courses include:
Chemistry
Biology
Physics
Advanced Math (e.g., pre-calculus and calculus)
English (continue to develop strong communication skills)
Maintain a High GPA: Strive to maintain a high grade point average (GPA) throughout high school. A strong GPA will be important for college admissions.
Extracurricular Activities: Participate in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to healthcare and leadership abilities. Consider joining clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) or volunteering at a local hospital or clinic.
Prepare for Standardized Tests: Start preparing for college entrance exams like the SAT or ACT. Strong test scores can enhance your college application.
Shadow Healthcare Professionals: If possible, shadow anesthesiologists or other healthcare professionals to gain firsthand experience in the field. This can help you confirm your career choice and build connections.
Research Colleges: Research colleges and universities with strong pre-medical programs. Look for institutions that offer pre-medical advising and opportunities for research or clinical experience.
College Prerequisites: Understand the specific prerequisites for medical school admission. These typically include coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, along with non-science courses like English and psychology.
Maintain a Well-Rounded Profile: While science and math are critical, don't neglect your other interests and skills. Medical schools value applicants who are well-rounded and have diverse experiences.
Stay Informed: Keep up with developments in the field of anesthesiology and healthcare by reading books, articles, and attending seminars or lectures if available.
Remember that the path to becoming an anesthesiologist is a long and challenging one, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals. Throughout high school and college, seek guidance from teachers, counselors, and mentors to help you navigate the steps required to reach medical school and ultimately pursue your career as an anesthesiologist.
**Middle School (8th Grade):
Focus on Core Subjects: Continue to excel in your core subjects such as math, science, and English. A strong foundation in these subjects is essential for success in high school and college.
Develop Study Habits: Start building effective study habits. Anesthesiology requires a rigorous education, so developing good study skills early will benefit you in the long run.
Participate in Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs, sports teams, or other extracurricular activities that interest you. These experiences can help you develop teamwork, leadership, and time management skills.
Volunteer: Consider volunteering in your community or at a local hospital. Even at a young age, you can get exposure to healthcare environments and start to gain an understanding of the field.
**High School:
Course Selection: Plan your high school coursework carefully. Focus on taking advanced courses in science and math, as these will be crucial for your pre-medical education. Essential high school courses include:
Chemistry
Biology
Physics
Advanced Math (e.g., pre-calculus and calculus)
English (continue to develop strong communication skills)
Maintain a High GPA: Strive to maintain a high grade point average (GPA) throughout high school. A strong GPA will be important for college admissions.
Extracurricular Activities: Participate in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to healthcare and leadership abilities. Consider joining clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) or volunteering at a local hospital or clinic.
Prepare for Standardized Tests: Start preparing for college entrance exams like the SAT or ACT. Strong test scores can enhance your college application.
Shadow Healthcare Professionals: If possible, shadow anesthesiologists or other healthcare professionals to gain firsthand experience in the field. This can help you confirm your career choice and build connections.
Research Colleges: Research colleges and universities with strong pre-medical programs. Look for institutions that offer pre-medical advising and opportunities for research or clinical experience.
College Prerequisites: Understand the specific prerequisites for medical school admission. These typically include coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, along with non-science courses like English and psychology.
Maintain a Well-Rounded Profile: While science and math are critical, don't neglect your other interests and skills. Medical schools value applicants who are well-rounded and have diverse experiences.
Stay Informed: Keep up with developments in the field of anesthesiology and healthcare by reading books, articles, and attending seminars or lectures if available.
Remember that the path to becoming an anesthesiologist is a long and challenging one, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals. Throughout high school and college, seek guidance from teachers, counselors, and mentors to help you navigate the steps required to reach medical school and ultimately pursue your career as an anesthesiologist.
This was super helpful, thank you!
adrian
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 Lily,
General Roadmap
To embark on the path of becoming an anesthesiologist, you can initiate several preparatory steps during your middle and high school years. Anesthesiologists are physicians who administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. They collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, like surgeons and anesthetists, to ensure patient safety and comfort during medical procedures.
Middle School Roadmap
In middle school, concentrate on the following areas:
Academic Excellence: Aim for academic success, especially in science and mathematics. Cultivate robust study habits, master time management skills, and build a firm foundation in math and science.
Career Exploration: Start investigating the medical field through reading, watching documentaries, and volunteering. This will provide you with a clearer picture of the profession and help you decide if it's the right path for you.
Communication Mastery: Enhance your communication skills, both written and spoken. Effective communication is key in your medical journey, particularly when interacting with patients, their families, and medical teams.
Extracurricular Engagement: Participate in extracurricular activities connected to healthcare or science, like joining a science club or volunteering at a hospital or nursing home. This will offer you practical experience and demonstrate your dedication to the field.
High School Roadmap
In high school, focus on these areas:
Advanced Math and Science: Take advanced courses in mathematics (like calculus and statistics) and science (like chemistry, biology, and physics). These subjects will strengthen your foundation for a career in anesthesiology.
AP Courses: Consider enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, or statistics to showcase your readiness for college-level coursework.
Healthcare Internships: Engage in internships or job shadowing opportunities in healthcare settings for firsthand experience in the medical field. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the daily tasks of anesthesiologists and other healthcare professionals.
Extracurricular Activities: Persist in your involvement in extracurricular activities related to healthcare or science, such as participating in science fairs, joining healthcare-related clubs, or volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
Medical Summer Programs: Take part in summer programs centered on healthcare or medicine to expand your understanding of the field and improve your skills and knowledge. These programs might be offered by universities, hospitals, or other organizations.
Recommendation Letters: Build relationships with teachers and mentors who can provide strong recommendation letters for your college applications. These recommendations should underscore your academic accomplishments, work ethic, and dedication to a career in anesthesiology.
College Preparation: Investigate colleges with robust pre-medical or pre-health programs to ensure you're well-prepared for medical school after completing your undergraduate degree.
Standardized Test Preparation: Start preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT early in your high school journey to ensure you achieve the best possible scores for college applications. Consider taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) during your undergraduate studies as part of your medical school application process.
Healthcare Ethics: Develop a thorough understanding of healthcare ethics through literature or seminars that discuss ethical issues related to medicine and patient care. This knowledge will be vital throughout your medical career as an anesthesiologist.
Critical Thinking Skills: Enhance your critical thinking skills through problem-solving activities inside and outside the classroom. Critical thinking will be vital when diagnosing medical conditions, formulating treatment plans, and making crucial patient care decisions during your career as an anesthesiologist.
Recommended Reference Titles:
The Princeton Review: Cracking the MCAT 2023
AAMC: Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) 2023
Association of American Medical Colleges: Choosing a Medical Specialty
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
General Roadmap
To embark on the path of becoming an anesthesiologist, you can initiate several preparatory steps during your middle and high school years. Anesthesiologists are physicians who administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. They collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, like surgeons and anesthetists, to ensure patient safety and comfort during medical procedures.
Middle School Roadmap
In middle school, concentrate on the following areas:
Academic Excellence: Aim for academic success, especially in science and mathematics. Cultivate robust study habits, master time management skills, and build a firm foundation in math and science.
Career Exploration: Start investigating the medical field through reading, watching documentaries, and volunteering. This will provide you with a clearer picture of the profession and help you decide if it's the right path for you.
Communication Mastery: Enhance your communication skills, both written and spoken. Effective communication is key in your medical journey, particularly when interacting with patients, their families, and medical teams.
Extracurricular Engagement: Participate in extracurricular activities connected to healthcare or science, like joining a science club or volunteering at a hospital or nursing home. This will offer you practical experience and demonstrate your dedication to the field.
High School Roadmap
In high school, focus on these areas:
Advanced Math and Science: Take advanced courses in mathematics (like calculus and statistics) and science (like chemistry, biology, and physics). These subjects will strengthen your foundation for a career in anesthesiology.
AP Courses: Consider enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses in biology, chemistry, calculus, or statistics to showcase your readiness for college-level coursework.
Healthcare Internships: Engage in internships or job shadowing opportunities in healthcare settings for firsthand experience in the medical field. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the daily tasks of anesthesiologists and other healthcare professionals.
Extracurricular Activities: Persist in your involvement in extracurricular activities related to healthcare or science, such as participating in science fairs, joining healthcare-related clubs, or volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
Medical Summer Programs: Take part in summer programs centered on healthcare or medicine to expand your understanding of the field and improve your skills and knowledge. These programs might be offered by universities, hospitals, or other organizations.
Recommendation Letters: Build relationships with teachers and mentors who can provide strong recommendation letters for your college applications. These recommendations should underscore your academic accomplishments, work ethic, and dedication to a career in anesthesiology.
College Preparation: Investigate colleges with robust pre-medical or pre-health programs to ensure you're well-prepared for medical school after completing your undergraduate degree.
Standardized Test Preparation: Start preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT early in your high school journey to ensure you achieve the best possible scores for college applications. Consider taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) during your undergraduate studies as part of your medical school application process.
Healthcare Ethics: Develop a thorough understanding of healthcare ethics through literature or seminars that discuss ethical issues related to medicine and patient care. This knowledge will be vital throughout your medical career as an anesthesiologist.
Critical Thinking Skills: Enhance your critical thinking skills through problem-solving activities inside and outside the classroom. Critical thinking will be vital when diagnosing medical conditions, formulating treatment plans, and making crucial patient care decisions during your career as an anesthesiologist.
Recommended Reference Titles:
The Princeton Review: Cracking the MCAT 2023
AAMC: Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) 2023
Association of American Medical Colleges: Choosing a Medical Specialty
May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
Rita Chuang
Physician
206
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
I don't think it's important now. You just need to maintain good study habits and good grades. College is going to be more important. When you are in college, I recommend that you work as a scribe. This allows you to have contact with physicians and learn the language. Good luck!!
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Starting early and planning your academic path in middle school is a great way to set yourself on the path to becoming an anesthesiologist. Here are steps to consider as you prepare for this career:
**1. Maintain Strong Academic Performance:**
- Continue excelling in your core subjects, especially in science and mathematics. These will form the foundation of your education.
**2. Develop Study Habits:**
- Cultivate effective study habits and time management skills to manage the rigorous coursework ahead.
**3. Explore Science and Healthcare:**
- Take an interest in science-related extracurricular activities, such as science clubs, summer camps, or science fairs, to deepen your passion for the field.
**4. Volunteer and Gain Exposure:**
- Seek opportunities to volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare-related organizations. This will provide you with exposure to the medical field and help you understand the healthcare environment.
**5. Build Strong Communication Skills:**
- Communication is essential in healthcare. Work on your verbal and written communication skills, as well as your ability to empathize with patients.
**6. Plan High School Courses:**
- Consider taking advanced science courses in high school, including biology, chemistry, and physics. These are essential for pre-medical preparation.
- Take advanced mathematics courses, such as algebra II, trigonometry, and calculus.
- Continue excelling in English and other language arts courses to develop strong communication skills.
- High school courses in anatomy, physiology, and health sciences, if available, can be beneficial.
**7. Pursue Extracurriculars:**
- Join clubs or organizations related to healthcare or science. If your school offers a Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter, consider joining.
- Engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and teamwork, as these qualities are valued in the medical field.
**8. Seek Mentorship:**
- Identify teachers, counselors, or healthcare professionals who can serve as mentors and guide you in your academic and career pursuits.
**9. Stay Informed:**
- Keep up to date with developments in the medical field, particularly in anesthesiology. Read books, articles, or blogs related to healthcare and anesthesia.
**10. Plan for College:**
- Research undergraduate programs with strong pre-medical tracks. Consider universities with affiliated medical schools or programs that offer early assurance for medical school admission.
**11. Prepare for Standardized Tests:**
- As you approach high school, start preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, which are required for college admission.
**12. Volunteer and Shadow:**
- As you progress through high school, aim to secure volunteer positions or shadowing opportunities in healthcare settings, particularly in anesthesia or related fields.
**13. Maintain a Strong GPA:**
- Keep your grades high throughout high school, as a competitive GPA is important for medical school admission.
Remember that the journey to becoming an anesthesiologist is long and challenging, but with determination, hard work, and early preparation, you can achieve your goal. Seek guidance from teachers, counselors, and mentors along the way, and remain focused on your passion for medicine and patient care.
**1. Maintain Strong Academic Performance:**
- Continue excelling in your core subjects, especially in science and mathematics. These will form the foundation of your education.
**2. Develop Study Habits:**
- Cultivate effective study habits and time management skills to manage the rigorous coursework ahead.
**3. Explore Science and Healthcare:**
- Take an interest in science-related extracurricular activities, such as science clubs, summer camps, or science fairs, to deepen your passion for the field.
**4. Volunteer and Gain Exposure:**
- Seek opportunities to volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare-related organizations. This will provide you with exposure to the medical field and help you understand the healthcare environment.
**5. Build Strong Communication Skills:**
- Communication is essential in healthcare. Work on your verbal and written communication skills, as well as your ability to empathize with patients.
**6. Plan High School Courses:**
- Consider taking advanced science courses in high school, including biology, chemistry, and physics. These are essential for pre-medical preparation.
- Take advanced mathematics courses, such as algebra II, trigonometry, and calculus.
- Continue excelling in English and other language arts courses to develop strong communication skills.
- High school courses in anatomy, physiology, and health sciences, if available, can be beneficial.
**7. Pursue Extracurriculars:**
- Join clubs or organizations related to healthcare or science. If your school offers a Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter, consider joining.
- Engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and teamwork, as these qualities are valued in the medical field.
**8. Seek Mentorship:**
- Identify teachers, counselors, or healthcare professionals who can serve as mentors and guide you in your academic and career pursuits.
**9. Stay Informed:**
- Keep up to date with developments in the medical field, particularly in anesthesiology. Read books, articles, or blogs related to healthcare and anesthesia.
**10. Plan for College:**
- Research undergraduate programs with strong pre-medical tracks. Consider universities with affiliated medical schools or programs that offer early assurance for medical school admission.
**11. Prepare for Standardized Tests:**
- As you approach high school, start preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, which are required for college admission.
**12. Volunteer and Shadow:**
- As you progress through high school, aim to secure volunteer positions or shadowing opportunities in healthcare settings, particularly in anesthesia or related fields.
**13. Maintain a Strong GPA:**
- Keep your grades high throughout high school, as a competitive GPA is important for medical school admission.
Remember that the journey to becoming an anesthesiologist is long and challenging, but with determination, hard work, and early preparation, you can achieve your goal. Seek guidance from teachers, counselors, and mentors along the way, and remain focused on your passion for medicine and patient care.
Deb Weber, MBA, MSRS, RCIS
Lab Assistant
18
Answers
Boise, Idaho
Updated
Deb’s Answer
I especially agree with #7 in Abu’s answer; find a mentor whenever possible. It’s easy to know you should have good grades, but sometimes it’s very helpful to connect with someone who can not only see your potential and help guide you through the steps, but also realize struggles can happen. It’s more than valuable to be connected with others who may even have had some of your same struggles - and have suggestions how to overcome them. Finding a mentor can be a powerful game changer.