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Juniper
Student
Decatur, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
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I am currently a freshman in high school and I really want to be a doctor (most likely work in the ER). I think it would be the perfect job for me. What steps can I take to reach my goal?
Thank you for taking the time to answer.
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7 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Build a solid academic foundation in science, math, and communications while in high school Juniper
FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE
If a career in medicine is on your radar, plan to take foundational science classes, including biology, chemistry, and physics. Exposure to this material in high school provides you with insight into these critical science areas at an early age. Quant classes are also vital. Beyond algebra, you will need to take geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics to cultivate problem-solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills. Consider taking science, math, or language classes at the AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) level. Either category indicates a higher level of academic rigor and might be accepted for college credit. Beyond being strong in math and science, good doctors need to know how to communicate effectively. So, focus on communications classes, including language and composition, literature, and/or a foreign language. Not only will these courses prepare you to write essays and personal statements for college applications (and ultimately medical school), but knowing how to write clearly is also an important life skill.
EXTRACURRICULAR EXPERIENCES
Between school, sports, and/or work obligations, you might already have a tightly packed schedule. But if you are considering applying to med school one day, it’s important to gain exposure to a variety of experiences, which can shine a light on different aspects of healthcare, medicine, and life as a physician. For example, 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.
MAJOR CHOICE
As a premed student, you can select any undergraduate major you desire as long as you are concurrently enrolled in premed prerequisite courses. These prerequisite courses should fulfill two goals: they should be required by medical schools, and they should help prepare you for the MCAT entrance exam. Most premeds select biology, chemistry, biochemistry, neuroscience, or something similar as their major, but there are also premeds who major in psychology, history, business, English, or philosophy, for example. When you consider your major, make sure you find it personally interesting and motivating, something that will provide you with academic growth and stimulation during your four years of college.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SUMMER
The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) has a database of Summer Enrichment and Pipeline Programs. These programs vary but tend to offer either volunteering, research, shadowing, educational workshops, and/or clinical exposure, all related to healthcare and medicine. Most programs require an application and have posted due dates, so give yourself adequate time to complete and submit all required documentation. When accessing the database, be sure to select “High School Level” in the “Education Level”.
Hope this was helpful Juniper
FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE
If a career in medicine is on your radar, plan to take foundational science classes, including biology, chemistry, and physics. Exposure to this material in high school provides you with insight into these critical science areas at an early age. Quant classes are also vital. Beyond algebra, you will need to take geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics to cultivate problem-solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills. Consider taking science, math, or language classes at the AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) level. Either category indicates a higher level of academic rigor and might be accepted for college credit. Beyond being strong in math and science, good doctors need to know how to communicate effectively. So, focus on communications classes, including language and composition, literature, and/or a foreign language. Not only will these courses prepare you to write essays and personal statements for college applications (and ultimately medical school), but knowing how to write clearly is also an important life skill.
EXTRACURRICULAR EXPERIENCES
Between school, sports, and/or work obligations, you might already have a tightly packed schedule. But if you are considering applying to med school one day, it’s important to gain exposure to a variety of experiences, which can shine a light on different aspects of healthcare, medicine, and life as a physician. For example, 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.
MAJOR CHOICE
As a premed student, you can select any undergraduate major you desire as long as you are concurrently enrolled in premed prerequisite courses. These prerequisite courses should fulfill two goals: they should be required by medical schools, and they should help prepare you for the MCAT entrance exam. Most premeds select biology, chemistry, biochemistry, neuroscience, or something similar as their major, but there are also premeds who major in psychology, history, business, English, or philosophy, for example. When you consider your major, make sure you find it personally interesting and motivating, something that will provide you with academic growth and stimulation during your four years of college.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SUMMER
The AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges) has a database of Summer Enrichment and Pipeline Programs. These programs vary but tend to offer either volunteering, research, shadowing, educational workshops, and/or clinical exposure, all related to healthcare and medicine. Most programs require an application and have posted due dates, so give yourself adequate time to complete and submit all required documentation. When accessing the database, be sure to select “High School Level” in the “Education Level”.
Hope this was helpful Juniper
Thank you so much for taking the time to give some detailed advice. I am very grateful.
Juniper
Eric Douglass
Consulting
3
Answers
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Hello Juniper!
My top advice for you is to embrace this period as a chance to master the art of learning. Yes, your high school grades matter, and so do your interpersonal skills, like being pleasant and enjoyable to converse with. However, acquiring the ability to learn effectively can be a game-changer. It's a skill that will be incredibly beneficial throughout your undergraduate journey, especially if you're aiming for medical school or other advanced degrees.
Keep going strong,
Eric
My top advice for you is to embrace this period as a chance to master the art of learning. Yes, your high school grades matter, and so do your interpersonal skills, like being pleasant and enjoyable to converse with. However, acquiring the ability to learn effectively can be a game-changer. It's a skill that will be incredibly beneficial throughout your undergraduate journey, especially if you're aiming for medical school or other advanced degrees.
Keep going strong,
Eric
Thank you for the advice. I really appreciate it.
Juniper
Rowan Thomas
Emergency Room/ Trauma Nurse
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Rowan’s Answer
Hi!
I am an ER nurse who works in large, academic teaching hospitals with residency programs for MDs. I love teaching hospitals! My best advice, to start your journey, is to volunteer in a large medical center emergency department! It looks great on your resume, it counts toward volunteer hours for your high school, exposes you to the environment, and is a great networking opportunity.
For high school, keep up your grades and participate in extracurriculars. Same goes for college. Focus heavily on the sciences as well. This way you have a long-standing positive academic record and resume once you are ready to apply to medical school, PA school, nursing school, or wherever heart lands!
Good luck!
I am an ER nurse who works in large, academic teaching hospitals with residency programs for MDs. I love teaching hospitals! My best advice, to start your journey, is to volunteer in a large medical center emergency department! It looks great on your resume, it counts toward volunteer hours for your high school, exposes you to the environment, and is a great networking opportunity.
For high school, keep up your grades and participate in extracurriculars. Same goes for college. Focus heavily on the sciences as well. This way you have a long-standing positive academic record and resume once you are ready to apply to medical school, PA school, nursing school, or wherever heart lands!
Good luck!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Juniper
Karissa Helton
Teacher
205
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
Take AP Biology, AP Chemistry and AP Physics 1 Algebra Based.
Thank you!
Juniper
Caroline V
Medical
91
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
In high school you can possibly take AP classes which are College credits depending on your grades etc. You can also save money and time by taking a CLEP Exam which is College level Examination Program if you pass the exam you will not be required to take that class in college. You will need a Bachelors Degree to get into Medical School. For example of Bachelor degrees would be Psychology, Biology, Biochemistry, Public Health, Health Science, Nursing, Biomedical Engineering. I hope this helps
Marion Don
Neurosurgeon
3
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Marion’s Answer
Get great grades, love the sciences
Thank you!
Juniper
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 Juniper!
Steps to Become a Doctor with a Focus on Emergency Medicine
Becoming a doctor, particularly one who works in the Emergency Room (ER), is an admirable goal that requires dedication, education, and strategic planning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your path from high school to becoming an ER physician.
1. Focus on Your High School Education
Your journey begins in high school. Here are some steps you can take:
Maintain Strong Academic Performance: Aim for high grades, especially in science and math courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and algebra. These subjects will form the foundation of your medical knowledge.
Take Advanced Placement (AP) or Honors Courses: If available, enroll in AP or honors classes related to science and mathematics. This not only strengthens your academic record but also prepares you for college-level coursework.
Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs or organizations related to health sciences, such as a health club or science club. Volunteering at local hospitals or clinics can provide valuable experience and insight into the medical field.
Develop Leadership Skills: Participate in student government or other leadership roles. These experiences will be beneficial when applying to colleges and later medical schools.
2. Prepare for College
After high school, you will need to pursue higher education:
Choose the Right College: Look for colleges that offer strong pre-med programs. Research schools known for their health sciences curriculum and consider factors like location, size, and campus culture.
Select a Relevant Major: While you can choose any major, many pre-med students opt for biology, chemistry, or biochemistry due to their relevance to medical school prerequisites.
Maintain a High GPA: Medical schools are competitive; aim for a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Balance your coursework with extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to medicine.
3. Gain Experience in Healthcare Settings
Experience is crucial:
Volunteer or Work in Healthcare Settings: Seek opportunities at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or emergency services (like ambulance services). This hands-on experience is invaluable and helps build your resume.
Shadow Healthcare Professionals: Arrange shadowing experiences with doctors—especially those working in emergency medicine—to gain insights into their daily responsibilities and challenges.
4. Prepare for Medical School Admission
As you approach the end of your undergraduate studies:
Take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): Start preparing early for this standardized test required by most medical schools. Consider taking preparatory courses if necessary.
Build Relationships with Professors: Strong letters of recommendation from faculty members who know you well can significantly enhance your medical school application.
5. Apply to Medical School
Once you’ve completed your undergraduate degree:
Research Medical Schools: Look for schools that have strong emergency medicine programs or affiliations with hospitals where you might want to work post-graduation.
Complete Applications Thoughtfully: Pay attention to personal statements and essays; they should reflect your passion for medicine and commitment to serving others.
6. Complete Medical School
During medical school:
Focus on Clinical Rotations: During your third year of medical school, you’ll have rotations across various specialties including emergency medicine—make the most of these experiences.
Consider Electives Related to Emergency Medicine: Take electives that allow you more exposure to ER settings or trauma care.
7. Pursue Residency Training
After graduating from medical school:
Apply for Residency Programs in Emergency Medicine: This typically lasts three years and provides intensive training specifically focused on emergency care.
8. Obtain Licensure and Board Certification
Upon completing residency:
Pass the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination): You must pass all three steps of this exam before practicing medicine independently.
Consider Board Certification in Emergency Medicine: Although not mandatory, certification can enhance job prospects and credibility within the field.
9. Continue Learning Throughout Your Career
The field of medicine is always evolving:
Stay updated with continuing education courses throughout your career.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and commitment towards helping others through healthcare, you’ll be well on your way toward achieving your goal of becoming an ER doctor!
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine
Association of American Medical Colleges
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
God Bless You!
JC.
Steps to Become a Doctor with a Focus on Emergency Medicine
Becoming a doctor, particularly one who works in the Emergency Room (ER), is an admirable goal that requires dedication, education, and strategic planning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your path from high school to becoming an ER physician.
1. Focus on Your High School Education
Your journey begins in high school. Here are some steps you can take:
Maintain Strong Academic Performance: Aim for high grades, especially in science and math courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and algebra. These subjects will form the foundation of your medical knowledge.
Take Advanced Placement (AP) or Honors Courses: If available, enroll in AP or honors classes related to science and mathematics. This not only strengthens your academic record but also prepares you for college-level coursework.
Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs or organizations related to health sciences, such as a health club or science club. Volunteering at local hospitals or clinics can provide valuable experience and insight into the medical field.
Develop Leadership Skills: Participate in student government or other leadership roles. These experiences will be beneficial when applying to colleges and later medical schools.
2. Prepare for College
After high school, you will need to pursue higher education:
Choose the Right College: Look for colleges that offer strong pre-med programs. Research schools known for their health sciences curriculum and consider factors like location, size, and campus culture.
Select a Relevant Major: While you can choose any major, many pre-med students opt for biology, chemistry, or biochemistry due to their relevance to medical school prerequisites.
Maintain a High GPA: Medical schools are competitive; aim for a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Balance your coursework with extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to medicine.
3. Gain Experience in Healthcare Settings
Experience is crucial:
Volunteer or Work in Healthcare Settings: Seek opportunities at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or emergency services (like ambulance services). This hands-on experience is invaluable and helps build your resume.
Shadow Healthcare Professionals: Arrange shadowing experiences with doctors—especially those working in emergency medicine—to gain insights into their daily responsibilities and challenges.
4. Prepare for Medical School Admission
As you approach the end of your undergraduate studies:
Take the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test): Start preparing early for this standardized test required by most medical schools. Consider taking preparatory courses if necessary.
Build Relationships with Professors: Strong letters of recommendation from faculty members who know you well can significantly enhance your medical school application.
5. Apply to Medical School
Once you’ve completed your undergraduate degree:
Research Medical Schools: Look for schools that have strong emergency medicine programs or affiliations with hospitals where you might want to work post-graduation.
Complete Applications Thoughtfully: Pay attention to personal statements and essays; they should reflect your passion for medicine and commitment to serving others.
6. Complete Medical School
During medical school:
Focus on Clinical Rotations: During your third year of medical school, you’ll have rotations across various specialties including emergency medicine—make the most of these experiences.
Consider Electives Related to Emergency Medicine: Take electives that allow you more exposure to ER settings or trauma care.
7. Pursue Residency Training
After graduating from medical school:
Apply for Residency Programs in Emergency Medicine: This typically lasts three years and provides intensive training specifically focused on emergency care.
8. Obtain Licensure and Board Certification
Upon completing residency:
Pass the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination): You must pass all three steps of this exam before practicing medicine independently.
Consider Board Certification in Emergency Medicine: Although not mandatory, certification can enhance job prospects and credibility within the field.
9. Continue Learning Throughout Your Career
The field of medicine is always evolving:
Stay updated with continuing education courses throughout your career.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and commitment towards helping others through healthcare, you’ll be well on your way toward achieving your goal of becoming an ER doctor!
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine
Association of American Medical Colleges
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
God Bless You!
JC.
Wow! I am so grateful for all the time you spent to write this. It is so helpful and I will use it throughout my career. God Bless You as well! -Juniper
Juniper