4 answers
Sosina
Student
Bahir Dar, Amhara, Ethiopia
1
Question
Asked
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What path should i follow and which major and minor should i choose to become a cardiothoracic surgeon?
Hi, I am currently grade 11 high school student. I am very interested in this field and I want to make it my future career. I started researching which college best fits me and other things recently . But along the way I got very confused and overwhelmed. I want to know which majors and minors I should choose and the whole process to reach this career.
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4 answers
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
440
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St. Louis, MO
Updated
Fred’s Answer
There is no real answer to this. You can major in anything you want.
TRADITIONALLY, pre-med students major in a hard science - biology, anatomy, or chemistry. But there is no reason they have to. There is a growing theory that majoring in one of the humanities can help future doctors related better to their patients and colleagues. If you go into research, writing may be a good topic. Or if you are going to open your own practice, some business classes may be a good idea.
Undergraduate is also your last chance to explore different things. Take a drama class, or philosophy, or painting...
But as for majors/minors, it's up to you.
TRADITIONALLY, pre-med students major in a hard science - biology, anatomy, or chemistry. But there is no reason they have to. There is a growing theory that majoring in one of the humanities can help future doctors related better to their patients and colleagues. If you go into research, writing may be a good topic. Or if you are going to open your own practice, some business classes may be a good idea.
Undergraduate is also your last chance to explore different things. Take a drama class, or philosophy, or painting...
But as for majors/minors, it's up to you.
Thank you, Fred for the advice.
Sosina
Ebonee Summerour
I am a call center manager who coaches and develop employees to be successful in their current job function and prepare for career advancement.
9
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Sugar Hill, Georgia
Updated
Ebonee’s Answer
Hello Sosina!
Embarking on a medical career doesn't mandate a pre-medicine or specific science major. You can absolutely major in English and minor in Biology. The key is passing the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), which will pave the way for your medical college journey. I would suggest minoring in a science, as it equips you with the requisite knowledge to ace the MCAT. Remember, it's perfectly normal for many students to be uncertain about their major in their first college year. You have ample time to explore, so start with your general education courses.
Fantastic query! Stay driven and aim high! Wishing you nothing but success!
Embarking on a medical career doesn't mandate a pre-medicine or specific science major. You can absolutely major in English and minor in Biology. The key is passing the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), which will pave the way for your medical college journey. I would suggest minoring in a science, as it equips you with the requisite knowledge to ace the MCAT. Remember, it's perfectly normal for many students to be uncertain about their major in their first college year. You have ample time to explore, so start with your general education courses.
Fantastic query! Stay driven and aim high! Wishing you nothing but success!
Thank you so much, Ebonee!
Sosina
Linden Stadtlander
Medical assistant/EMT
1
Answer
Burlington, Vermont
Updated
Linden’s Answer
The most important thing when deciding what to study is to pursue a major/minor you are passionate about. Many pre-medical students major in biology in order to pursue the prerequisite courses for medical school. However, neuroscience, genetics, and even animal science can also be viable options. The most important thing is to study a subject you enjoy and to perform well. That being said regardless of what you study, medical schools are much more interested in your real world applicable experiences. Regardless of what you decide to study, gaining a comprehensive healthcare experience as a tech or medical assistant is essential in order to pursue medical school.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5778
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Sosina!
Path to Becoming a Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires extensive education and training. Below is a comprehensive guide outlining the steps you should follow, including recommended majors and minors.
1. High School Preparation
As a Grade 11 student, your immediate focus should be on excelling in your current studies, particularly in science and mathematics courses. Here are some key areas to concentrate on:
Science Courses: Take advanced courses in biology, chemistry, and physics if available. These subjects will provide foundational knowledge essential for medical studies.
Mathematics: Strong skills in mathematics are crucial, especially in calculus and statistics.
Extracurricular Activities: Engage in activities related to healthcare or community service. Volunteering at hospitals or clinics can provide valuable experience and insight into the medical field.
2. Undergraduate Education
After completing high school, you will need to pursue an undergraduate degree. While there is no specific major required for medical school, certain fields can better prepare you for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and medical school applications.
Recommended Majors:
Biology: Offers a comprehensive understanding of living organisms and human anatomy.
Chemistry: Essential for understanding biochemistry and pharmacology.
Biomedical Engineering: Combines engineering principles with biological sciences, providing a unique perspective on medical technology.
Recommended Minors:
Psychology: Understanding patient behavior can enhance your communication skills as a future physician.
Public Health: Provides insights into health systems and disease prevention strategies.
3. Preparing for Medical School
During your undergraduate years, focus on maintaining a high GPA (generally above 3.5) and preparing for the MCAT:
Research Opportunities: Get involved in research projects related to medicine or healthcare; this experience can strengthen your application.
Clinical Experience: Seek internships or volunteer positions in hospitals or clinics to gain firsthand experience in patient care.
4. Medical School Admission
Once you complete your undergraduate degree, you will need to apply to medical schools:
Prepare for the MCAT: This standardized test assesses your knowledge of biological sciences, physical sciences, verbal reasoning, and writing skills.
Apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) or similar services depending on your country.
5. Medical School Education
Medical school typically lasts four years:
Years 1-2: Preclinical Training
You will study basic medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, etc.
Years 3-4: Clinical Rotations
You will rotate through various specialties including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, psychiatry, etc., allowing you to gain exposure to different fields of medicine.
6. Residency Training
After graduating from medical school (earning an MD or DO), you must complete a residency program:
General Surgery Residency
This usually lasts about five years and provides extensive training in surgical techniques across various specialties.
Cardiothoracic Surgery Fellowship
Following general surgery residency, you will need an additional two to three years of specialized training specifically focused on cardiothoracic surgery.
7. Board Certification
After completing your fellowship training:
You must pass board examinations administered by relevant certifying boards (e.g., American Board of Thoracic Surgery).
8. Continuing Education
Even after becoming certified as a cardiothoracic surgeon:
Engage in continuous learning through workshops, conferences, and further certifications to stay updated with advancements in the field.
Conclusion
The path to becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is long but fulfilling. Focus on excelling academically during high school and college while gaining relevant experiences that will enhance your application to medical school. Each step builds upon the last; dedication and perseverance are key components of success in this demanding field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American College of Surgeons - Provides detailed information about surgical education pathways.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) - Offers resources regarding medical school admissions processes.
National Board of Medical Examiners - Supplies information about board certification requirements for physicians.
God Bless!
JC.
Path to Becoming a Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires extensive education and training. Below is a comprehensive guide outlining the steps you should follow, including recommended majors and minors.
1. High School Preparation
As a Grade 11 student, your immediate focus should be on excelling in your current studies, particularly in science and mathematics courses. Here are some key areas to concentrate on:
Science Courses: Take advanced courses in biology, chemistry, and physics if available. These subjects will provide foundational knowledge essential for medical studies.
Mathematics: Strong skills in mathematics are crucial, especially in calculus and statistics.
Extracurricular Activities: Engage in activities related to healthcare or community service. Volunteering at hospitals or clinics can provide valuable experience and insight into the medical field.
2. Undergraduate Education
After completing high school, you will need to pursue an undergraduate degree. While there is no specific major required for medical school, certain fields can better prepare you for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and medical school applications.
Recommended Majors:
Biology: Offers a comprehensive understanding of living organisms and human anatomy.
Chemistry: Essential for understanding biochemistry and pharmacology.
Biomedical Engineering: Combines engineering principles with biological sciences, providing a unique perspective on medical technology.
Recommended Minors:
Psychology: Understanding patient behavior can enhance your communication skills as a future physician.
Public Health: Provides insights into health systems and disease prevention strategies.
3. Preparing for Medical School
During your undergraduate years, focus on maintaining a high GPA (generally above 3.5) and preparing for the MCAT:
Research Opportunities: Get involved in research projects related to medicine or healthcare; this experience can strengthen your application.
Clinical Experience: Seek internships or volunteer positions in hospitals or clinics to gain firsthand experience in patient care.
4. Medical School Admission
Once you complete your undergraduate degree, you will need to apply to medical schools:
Prepare for the MCAT: This standardized test assesses your knowledge of biological sciences, physical sciences, verbal reasoning, and writing skills.
Apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) or similar services depending on your country.
5. Medical School Education
Medical school typically lasts four years:
Years 1-2: Preclinical Training
You will study basic medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, etc.
Years 3-4: Clinical Rotations
You will rotate through various specialties including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, psychiatry, etc., allowing you to gain exposure to different fields of medicine.
6. Residency Training
After graduating from medical school (earning an MD or DO), you must complete a residency program:
General Surgery Residency
This usually lasts about five years and provides extensive training in surgical techniques across various specialties.
Cardiothoracic Surgery Fellowship
Following general surgery residency, you will need an additional two to three years of specialized training specifically focused on cardiothoracic surgery.
7. Board Certification
After completing your fellowship training:
You must pass board examinations administered by relevant certifying boards (e.g., American Board of Thoracic Surgery).
8. Continuing Education
Even after becoming certified as a cardiothoracic surgeon:
Engage in continuous learning through workshops, conferences, and further certifications to stay updated with advancements in the field.
Conclusion
The path to becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon is long but fulfilling. Focus on excelling academically during high school and college while gaining relevant experiences that will enhance your application to medical school. Each step builds upon the last; dedication and perseverance are key components of success in this demanding field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American College of Surgeons - Provides detailed information about surgical education pathways.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) - Offers resources regarding medical school admissions processes.
National Board of Medical Examiners - Supplies information about board certification requirements for physicians.
God Bless!
JC.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Sosina