2 answers
Juliet
Student
Alabama, NY
2
Questions
2 answers
Susan Burg
Surgical Technician
25
Answers
Torrance, California
Updated
Susan’s Answer
Hi.
Are you asking which of the three your should become? You are the only one who can answer that question. Each road comes with a lot of study and much dedication. It's a life that can become very involved. You don't say how old you are or what grade your in. But, I would talk to a school counselor and, if possible, see about volunteering at a local hospital. There you can get a fair idea of what hospital life is like. Each department has their own life and a different rhythm. Good luck and much success.
Are you asking which of the three your should become? You are the only one who can answer that question. Each road comes with a lot of study and much dedication. It's a life that can become very involved. You don't say how old you are or what grade your in. But, I would talk to a school counselor and, if possible, see about volunteering at a local hospital. There you can get a fair idea of what hospital life is like. Each department has their own life and a different rhythm. Good luck and much success.
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
163
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Embarking on the journey to becoming a surgeon involves several exciting steps:
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Kickstart your journey with a four-year undergraduate program, ideally in a field related to science. Although there's no specific major required, subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics could give you a head start.
2. Ace the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This is a prerequisite for most medical schools in the United States. The MCAT is a standardized exam that measures your understanding of scientific concepts, as well as your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
3. Enroll in Medical School: Once you've successfully navigated your undergraduate degree and MCAT, it's time to immerse yourself in medical school. This four-year journey offers a comprehensive education in a variety of medical disciplines.
4. Secure a Medical License: Upon your graduation from medical school, you'll need to acquire a medical license to practice medicine. This usually involves passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or an equivalent licensing exam in your country.
5. Embark on a Residency Program: Aspiring surgeons must experience several years of surgical residency training to hone their surgical skills through practical experience. These residency programs can range from five to seven years, depending on your chosen surgical specialty.
6. Consider Fellowship Training (Optional): Some surgeons opt for additional fellowship training to specialize in a particular area of surgery. These programs typically span one to three years and offer advanced training in specialized surgical techniques.
7. Achieve Board Certification: After completing your residency and fellowship training (if you've chosen to do so), you can pursue board certification in your surgical specialty. This certification is a testament to your expertise and proficiency in your chosen field.
Remember, as a surgeon, your learning journey never ends. Staying updated with the latest surgical techniques and medical knowledge is crucial. Professional development, research, and continuous education are key ingredients for a thriving surgical career.
1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Kickstart your journey with a four-year undergraduate program, ideally in a field related to science. Although there's no specific major required, subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics could give you a head start.
2. Ace the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This is a prerequisite for most medical schools in the United States. The MCAT is a standardized exam that measures your understanding of scientific concepts, as well as your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
3. Enroll in Medical School: Once you've successfully navigated your undergraduate degree and MCAT, it's time to immerse yourself in medical school. This four-year journey offers a comprehensive education in a variety of medical disciplines.
4. Secure a Medical License: Upon your graduation from medical school, you'll need to acquire a medical license to practice medicine. This usually involves passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or an equivalent licensing exam in your country.
5. Embark on a Residency Program: Aspiring surgeons must experience several years of surgical residency training to hone their surgical skills through practical experience. These residency programs can range from five to seven years, depending on your chosen surgical specialty.
6. Consider Fellowship Training (Optional): Some surgeons opt for additional fellowship training to specialize in a particular area of surgery. These programs typically span one to three years and offer advanced training in specialized surgical techniques.
7. Achieve Board Certification: After completing your residency and fellowship training (if you've chosen to do so), you can pursue board certification in your surgical specialty. This certification is a testament to your expertise and proficiency in your chosen field.
Remember, as a surgeon, your learning journey never ends. Staying updated with the latest surgical techniques and medical knowledge is crucial. Professional development, research, and continuous education are key ingredients for a thriving surgical career.