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What are some things that I can do throughout high school for someone interested in being a pediatrician?

I want to be a pediatrician when I'm older is there anything I can do like projects or jobs after school related to this field or are there specific classes I should take in high school for this.

Thank you comment icon Just continue doing well in high school. College is when you will need to start focusing on extracurricular activities. I recommend everyone work as a medical scribe. Rita Chuang

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Subject: Career question for you

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Doc’s Answer

Emily if you already know that you want to enter into the healthcare field when you get older, then there is no time like the present to begin preparing. In fact, there are a number of things you can do right now in high school to begin preparing yourself for a career in medicine. For starters, you need to make sure to keep relatively high grades.

At this point in your academic career, it’s not just about getting high marks in the maths and sciences either. No, you also need to make sure that your grades in the humanities and other subjects are high enough to get you into a college of your choice. Of course, there are all kinds of pre-med programs out there for students of different skill levels and types, but, generally, a teen interested in a career in medicine needs to be an above average student, even in high school. Your standardized test results will also likely be important.

The next best thing you can do while still in high school to prepare for a career in medicine is to join extracurricular clubs related to healthcare.
Join relevant clubs, such as those for premed, biology, chemistry, sports medicine, and neuroscience. As a member of one or more of these clubs, you will not only learn more about the specific topic but also collaborate with peers, discuss relevant research, and participate in academic dialogue.

Consider volunteering as well, especially at a hospital, clinic, or assisted living community. You will gain insight into the complex and interrelated tasks of a medical facility, while also familiarizing yourself with the many medical specialties available in that setting and the scope of patient care offered. Just as important, if not more so, is that in a volunteering role, you will learn to practice empathy, compassion, and communication skills. You will also demonstrate a commitment to service that is fundamental to medicine.

Shadowing a physician is another volunteer activity that many students find so inspiring that they decide, “Yes, medicine is for me!” Shadowing a physician allows you to carefully observe, listen to, and watch a doctor in clinical practice for several hours each week. This is an excellent opportunity to witness patient-physician interactions, the scope of practice, work-life balance, and professionalism.

An additional way to get medical experience is
to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or as a hospital scribe doing data entry. This can help you to gain clinical experience and prepare for a career a a pediatrician.

I hope this was helpful Emily
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Bonnie’s Answer

Hello Emily, I wholeheartedly recommend you to consider Dual Credit or AP classes in both math and science. These courses will clearly demonstrate your strong dedication needed in these fields, perfectly aligning with your interest. They will prepare you effectively for a Pre-med degree for your Bachelors. Wishing you all the success and luck in your endeavors!
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Karissa’s Answer

AP Biology, AP Chemistry and AP Physics.

Karissa recommends the following next steps:

Ask to shadow your Pediatrician.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Emily,

Exploring the Field of Pediatrics in High School:

If you are interested in becoming a pediatrician, there are several steps you can take during high school to prepare for this career path. Here are some suggestions on what you can do throughout high school to set yourself up for success in pursuing a career as a pediatrician:

1. Take Relevant Science Courses:

Focus on taking science courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics. These courses will provide you with a strong foundation in the sciences, which is essential for medical school and a career in medicine.

2. Volunteer at Hospitals or Clinics:

Consider volunteering at hospitals or clinics that cater to children. This will give you firsthand experience working with pediatric patients and help you understand the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare professionals in this field.

3. Participate in Research Projects:

Look for opportunities to participate in research projects related to pediatrics or general healthcare. Involvement in research can enhance your critical thinking skills and expose you to the latest developments in the field of medicine.

4. Join Health-Related Clubs or Organizations:

Join clubs or organizations at your school that focus on health-related topics or community service. This will allow you to engage with like-minded peers and demonstrate your commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare.

5. Shadow Pediatricians:

Reach out to local pediatricians and inquire about shadowing opportunities. Shadowing a pediatrician will give you valuable insights into the daily routine of a pediatric healthcare provider and help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

6. Pursue Leadership Roles:

Seek leadership positions in extracurricular activities or clubs. Developing leadership skills is important for future physicians, as it demonstrates your ability to take initiative and work effectively with others.

7. Maintain a Strong Academic Record:

Focus on maintaining good grades throughout high school, especially in science and math courses. A strong academic record is essential for gaining admission to competitive undergraduate programs and medical schools.

By following these suggestions, you can start building a solid foundation for your future career as a pediatrician while still in high school.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

The AAP is a leading professional organization that provides resources and guidance for individuals interested in pediatrics. Their website offers valuable information on educational pathways, training requirements, and career opportunities in pediatrics.

Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC):

The AAMC is a reliable source of information on medical education and training in the United States. Their resources can help high school students understand the steps in becoming a physician, including pre-medical coursework requirements.

National Institutes of Health (NIH):

The NIH conducts biomedical research and provides educational resources on various health-related topics. Exploring their website can offer insights into current trends in pediatric medicine and potential research opportunities for aspiring pediatricians.

These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in guiding preparing for a career as a pediatrician during high school.

God Bless You,
JC.
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