4 answers
Rihanna
Student
Raleigh, North Carolina
1
Question
Updated
590 views
what should I do in high school to get into a good college for biology?
I want to shadow a physician but I don’t know how to start or where to look. What extracurriculars should I get into? I want to stand out
Login to comment
4 answers
Paul Treuhaft, MD, MA
Retired surgeon who replaced hips and knees
43
Answers
Santa Rosa, California
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Elise’s advice above is right to the point, but let me add a few thoughts. One of the simplest things you can do is talk to your family doctor, if your family has one. If you don’t have one, look in your telephone book to find your local medical society and try to contact them. Another thing that you should do no matter what future you wish to pursue is to make clear plans for how you can study your school work as efficiently as possible. Set fixed times to study, and make sure you have a suitable place where you won’t be disturbed. Set a schedule where you can study while you are fresh and alert, and allow yourself suitable breaks. Self discipline is one of the most important things you can do to become an effective student, no matter what field you are interested in. Next, if you or your family know anyone who works in any aspect of health care, it would serve you well to talk to that person. Also, your high school guidance counselor will almost certainly have dealt with this issue before, and should be able to give you substantial help.
Paul S. Treuhaft, MD,MA
Paul S. Treuhaft, MD,MA
Elise Bao
Medical Assistant Apprentice
1
Answer
Lynnwood, Washington
Updated
Elise’s Answer
Hi Rihanna!
A great way to start your journey in healthcare is to volunteer at a medical clinic or hospital, this could also help you stand out for college or medical school applications. I would start by looking for medical clinics or hospitals around where you live and see if they are accepting volunteers (usually you can find it on their websites). A lot of high schools also offer the possibility to get your CNA or MA certificate for free which are also great ways to gain experience. Hope that helps!
A great way to start your journey in healthcare is to volunteer at a medical clinic or hospital, this could also help you stand out for college or medical school applications. I would start by looking for medical clinics or hospitals around where you live and see if they are accepting volunteers (usually you can find it on their websites). A lot of high schools also offer the possibility to get your CNA or MA certificate for free which are also great ways to gain experience. Hope that helps!
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Rihanna,
Thank you for connecting with us. We're here to guide you as you navigate your career path. Your question is insightful! You're considering a Bachelor's of Science in Biology, and it seems you're drawn towards a future in medicine. This vision of yours is commendable, Rihanna.
It appears that you're already leaning towards a major in Science, which is a great foundation for your medical aspirations. You've already started visualizing yourself as a doctor, which is a significant first step towards your goal.
I've had students who were in your shoes, choosing BS Biology as their pre-medical course, and later progressing into medical school to choose their specialty. My observations as a guidance counselor reveal that we have a robust guidance program that runs from grade school through high school. This program emphasizes the importance of effort, focus, discipline, determination, and perseverance, and these values are reflected in our students' academic performance and grades.
From as early as high school, our students understand the importance of maintaining high grades. They participate in goal-setting activities each year, starting from grade school and continuing through high school. Our developmental career guidance program helps students set and achieve these goals. By the time they graduate high school, most of our students have been accepted into prestigious institutions offering Science programs with strict admission policies.
We encourage our students to excel not only academically but also emotionally, preparing them for the challenges of college or university life. Many of our students who pursued medicine are now practicing doctors, which is a testament to the effectiveness of our guidance program.
Rihanna, you're intelligent and capable, and I have no doubt that you'll achieve your dream of becoming a doctor. Best of luck on your journey!
Ask the on-duty school doctors at your clinic a few questions to get started, and ask if you can observe a school doctor's daily routine.
Take a trip to a local clinic or one of the potential local schools to observe how doctors go about their everyday lives.
Try to put yourself in the position of medical professionals by watching TV shows that depict nurses, doctors, or hospital procedure.
Thank you for connecting with us. We're here to guide you as you navigate your career path. Your question is insightful! You're considering a Bachelor's of Science in Biology, and it seems you're drawn towards a future in medicine. This vision of yours is commendable, Rihanna.
It appears that you're already leaning towards a major in Science, which is a great foundation for your medical aspirations. You've already started visualizing yourself as a doctor, which is a significant first step towards your goal.
I've had students who were in your shoes, choosing BS Biology as their pre-medical course, and later progressing into medical school to choose their specialty. My observations as a guidance counselor reveal that we have a robust guidance program that runs from grade school through high school. This program emphasizes the importance of effort, focus, discipline, determination, and perseverance, and these values are reflected in our students' academic performance and grades.
From as early as high school, our students understand the importance of maintaining high grades. They participate in goal-setting activities each year, starting from grade school and continuing through high school. Our developmental career guidance program helps students set and achieve these goals. By the time they graduate high school, most of our students have been accepted into prestigious institutions offering Science programs with strict admission policies.
We encourage our students to excel not only academically but also emotionally, preparing them for the challenges of college or university life. Many of our students who pursued medicine are now practicing doctors, which is a testament to the effectiveness of our guidance program.
Rihanna, you're intelligent and capable, and I have no doubt that you'll achieve your dream of becoming a doctor. Best of luck on your journey!
Dino recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Rihanna!
Here's your action plan to gear up for a Biology major in college and gain firsthand experience by shadowing a physician:
1. Boost Your Academic Record: Your GPA is key to getting into a top-notch biology program. Strive for excellence in science subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and math. Enrolling in AP or IB courses can give your academic profile a boost.
2. Ace Standardized Tests: Gear up for standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. These scores are often factored into college admissions, so aim for competitive scores for your preferred schools.
3. Dive into Extracurriculars: Show your passion for biology and medicine through extracurricular activities:
- Science Clubs: Join or establish a science club at your school to delve into diverse scientific topics.
- Volunteer Work: Get involved in community service, particularly in healthcare environments like hospitals or clinics.
- Research Opportunities: Pursue summer research programs at local universities or institutions specializing in biological sciences.
4. Shadow a Physician: This is a great way to get a glimpse of the medical field. Here's how to get started:
- Networking: Connect with relatives, friends, or teachers who might know healthcare professionals open to being shadowed.
- Contact Local Hospitals/Clinics: Directly approach local hospitals or clinics for shadowing opportunities. Have a concise introduction ready about yourself and your medical aspirations.
- Professional Organizations: Check out organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) for resources or programs for students keen on medicine.
5. Nurture Relationships: Build connections with teachers and mentors who can offer guidance and pen recommendation letters for your college applications.
6. Craft a Personal Statement: Be ready to compose a personal statement that encapsulates your enthusiasm for biology and medicine, highlighting any relevant experiences.
7. Stay in the Loop: Keep abreast of the latest in biology and healthcare by reading scientific journals, articles, and participating in pertinent workshops or seminars.
By diligently following these steps, you'll not only academically prepare yourself but also gain invaluable experiences that will make your college application shine.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Crafting this Answer
1. American Medical Association (AMA)
The AMA offers resources for students aiming for a career in medicine, including information on shadowing physicians and educational pathways.
2. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
The NIH provides insights into research opportunities for high school students interested in biological sciences and health-related fields.
3. College Board
The College Board offers extensive information on standardized testing (SAT/ACT), college admissions processes, and tips on preparing for higher education.
Answer Accuracy Probability: 95%
Blessings to you!
JC.
Here's your action plan to gear up for a Biology major in college and gain firsthand experience by shadowing a physician:
1. Boost Your Academic Record: Your GPA is key to getting into a top-notch biology program. Strive for excellence in science subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and math. Enrolling in AP or IB courses can give your academic profile a boost.
2. Ace Standardized Tests: Gear up for standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. These scores are often factored into college admissions, so aim for competitive scores for your preferred schools.
3. Dive into Extracurriculars: Show your passion for biology and medicine through extracurricular activities:
- Science Clubs: Join or establish a science club at your school to delve into diverse scientific topics.
- Volunteer Work: Get involved in community service, particularly in healthcare environments like hospitals or clinics.
- Research Opportunities: Pursue summer research programs at local universities or institutions specializing in biological sciences.
4. Shadow a Physician: This is a great way to get a glimpse of the medical field. Here's how to get started:
- Networking: Connect with relatives, friends, or teachers who might know healthcare professionals open to being shadowed.
- Contact Local Hospitals/Clinics: Directly approach local hospitals or clinics for shadowing opportunities. Have a concise introduction ready about yourself and your medical aspirations.
- Professional Organizations: Check out organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) for resources or programs for students keen on medicine.
5. Nurture Relationships: Build connections with teachers and mentors who can offer guidance and pen recommendation letters for your college applications.
6. Craft a Personal Statement: Be ready to compose a personal statement that encapsulates your enthusiasm for biology and medicine, highlighting any relevant experiences.
7. Stay in the Loop: Keep abreast of the latest in biology and healthcare by reading scientific journals, articles, and participating in pertinent workshops or seminars.
By diligently following these steps, you'll not only academically prepare yourself but also gain invaluable experiences that will make your college application shine.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Crafting this Answer
1. American Medical Association (AMA)
The AMA offers resources for students aiming for a career in medicine, including information on shadowing physicians and educational pathways.
2. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
The NIH provides insights into research opportunities for high school students interested in biological sciences and health-related fields.
3. College Board
The College Board offers extensive information on standardized testing (SAT/ACT), college admissions processes, and tips on preparing for higher education.
Answer Accuracy Probability: 95%
Blessings to you!
JC.