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Seba
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What can I do to pursue a career in the field of medicine?
What can I do to pursue a career in the field of medicine? I've been thinking deeply about what I'd like to do after highschool. Maybe becoming a general surgeon, but I'm completely lost on where to start, people have been telling me all different things. Can someone give me some advice? What universities / colleges should I go to?
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6084
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Seba!
Pursuing a Career in Medicine: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Understand the Pathway to Becoming a Surgeon
To become a general surgeon, you must follow a structured educational pathway that typically includes:
High School Education: Focus on science courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics. Participate in extracurricular activities related to healthcare, such as volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
Undergraduate Degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree, ideally with a focus on pre-medical studies. Common majors include biology, chemistry, or health sciences. During this time, maintain a high GPA and engage in research or internships related to medicine.
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Prepare for and take the MCAT, which is required for admission to medical school. This standardized test assesses your knowledge of biological and physical sciences, verbal reasoning, and critical thinking skills.
Medical School: Attend an accredited medical school for four years. The first two years typically involve classroom-based learning in subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology. The last two years usually consist of clinical rotations in various specialties.
Residency Training: After graduating from medical school, you must complete a residency program in surgery. General surgery residencies typically last five years and provide hands-on training under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
Board Certification: After completing your residency, you can take the board certification exam offered by the American Board of Surgery (or equivalent in your country). Passing this exam allows you to practice as a certified general surgeon.
2. Research Medical Schools
When considering medical schools, look for institutions that are well-regarded for their surgical programs. Some top U.S. medical schools known for their surgical training include:
Johns Hopkins University
Harvard University
Stanford University
University of California—San Francisco
These schools often have rigorous admission standards and competitive application processes. It’s essential to research each school’s curriculum, faculty expertise, residency placement rates, and available resources.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
In addition to academic qualifications:
Volunteer or Work in Healthcare Settings: Gaining experience through volunteering at hospitals or clinics can provide insight into the medical field and strengthen your application.
Shadowing Surgeons: Arrange opportunities to shadow practicing surgeons to understand their daily responsibilities and challenges better.
Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects during your undergraduate studies that relate to surgery or medicine; this experience can enhance your understanding of the field and improve your application profile.
4. Networking and Mentorship
Establish connections with professionals in the field:
Seek Mentors: Find mentors who are currently working as surgeons or involved in medical education who can provide guidance throughout your journey.
Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining organizations such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS) or local medical societies where you can network with peers and professionals.
5. Prepare for Medical School Applications
When preparing your applications:
Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that reflects your passion for medicine and why you want to pursue surgery specifically.
Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors or healthcare professionals who can speak positively about your abilities and character.
6. Financial Planning
Consider the financial implications of pursuing a career in medicine:
Investigate scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs available for undergraduate studies and medical school.
7. Stay Informed About Changes in Medicine
The field of medicine is constantly evolving; stay updated on new technologies, surgical techniques, and healthcare policies by reading relevant journals such as The Journal of the American College of Surgeons or Surgery magazine.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining focus on both academic excellence and practical experience within healthcare settings, you will be well-prepared to pursue a successful career as a general surgeon.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Medical Association (AMA)
The AMA provides comprehensive information about pathways into medicine including educational requirements for becoming physicians and surgeons along with resources for students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.
2. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
The AAMC offers detailed guidance on pre-medical education requirements as well as information about medical schools across North America including admissions processes and MCAT preparation resources.
3. American College of Surgeons (ACS)
The ACS is dedicated to improving surgical care through education; it provides resources specifically tailored for aspiring surgeons including guidelines on residency training programs and professional development opportunities within surgery.
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Pursuing a Career in Medicine: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Understand the Pathway to Becoming a Surgeon
To become a general surgeon, you must follow a structured educational pathway that typically includes:
High School Education: Focus on science courses such as biology, chemistry, and physics. Participate in extracurricular activities related to healthcare, such as volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
Undergraduate Degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree, ideally with a focus on pre-medical studies. Common majors include biology, chemistry, or health sciences. During this time, maintain a high GPA and engage in research or internships related to medicine.
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Prepare for and take the MCAT, which is required for admission to medical school. This standardized test assesses your knowledge of biological and physical sciences, verbal reasoning, and critical thinking skills.
Medical School: Attend an accredited medical school for four years. The first two years typically involve classroom-based learning in subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology. The last two years usually consist of clinical rotations in various specialties.
Residency Training: After graduating from medical school, you must complete a residency program in surgery. General surgery residencies typically last five years and provide hands-on training under the supervision of experienced surgeons.
Board Certification: After completing your residency, you can take the board certification exam offered by the American Board of Surgery (or equivalent in your country). Passing this exam allows you to practice as a certified general surgeon.
2. Research Medical Schools
When considering medical schools, look for institutions that are well-regarded for their surgical programs. Some top U.S. medical schools known for their surgical training include:
Johns Hopkins University
Harvard University
Stanford University
University of California—San Francisco
These schools often have rigorous admission standards and competitive application processes. It’s essential to research each school’s curriculum, faculty expertise, residency placement rates, and available resources.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
In addition to academic qualifications:
Volunteer or Work in Healthcare Settings: Gaining experience through volunteering at hospitals or clinics can provide insight into the medical field and strengthen your application.
Shadowing Surgeons: Arrange opportunities to shadow practicing surgeons to understand their daily responsibilities and challenges better.
Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects during your undergraduate studies that relate to surgery or medicine; this experience can enhance your understanding of the field and improve your application profile.
4. Networking and Mentorship
Establish connections with professionals in the field:
Seek Mentors: Find mentors who are currently working as surgeons or involved in medical education who can provide guidance throughout your journey.
Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining organizations such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS) or local medical societies where you can network with peers and professionals.
5. Prepare for Medical School Applications
When preparing your applications:
Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that reflects your passion for medicine and why you want to pursue surgery specifically.
Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors or healthcare professionals who can speak positively about your abilities and character.
6. Financial Planning
Consider the financial implications of pursuing a career in medicine:
Investigate scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs available for undergraduate studies and medical school.
7. Stay Informed About Changes in Medicine
The field of medicine is constantly evolving; stay updated on new technologies, surgical techniques, and healthcare policies by reading relevant journals such as The Journal of the American College of Surgeons or Surgery magazine.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining focus on both academic excellence and practical experience within healthcare settings, you will be well-prepared to pursue a successful career as a general surgeon.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Medical Association (AMA)
The AMA provides comprehensive information about pathways into medicine including educational requirements for becoming physicians and surgeons along with resources for students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.
2. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
The AAMC offers detailed guidance on pre-medical education requirements as well as information about medical schools across North America including admissions processes and MCAT preparation resources.
3. American College of Surgeons (ACS)
The ACS is dedicated to improving surgical care through education; it provides resources specifically tailored for aspiring surgeons including guidelines on residency training programs and professional development opportunities within surgery.
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Thank you for the information!
:)
Seba
Rachel Rael
Cusotmer Service
5
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Pursue your Bachelor's Degree in the field of Science, follow it up with pre-med studies, and then confidently move forward to medical school.
Tillie Coe
Veterinary assistant
1
Answer
Charleston, South Carolina
Updated
Tillie’s Answer
A lot of places in every field will let you shadow or intern in high school! Going in person (if it's a smaller practice) or making an actual phone call on your own really shows responsibility. Don't get your parents to do it! Also, follow up! Businesses want to see you take initiative and show passion. Reach out to lots of places, and if you don't have success, consider a related career and do the same thing. Also, a website called Coursera has a lot of quick, free/affordable specialized online courses to gain knowledge and experience. Most of them give you the option to take the class for free and just get the knowledge, or you can pay to get a certificate. Remember, you don't have to be certain about your future career yet! I know there's a lot of pressure about that, but college is mainly about discovering your passions. Most people change their major at least once. Discover different fields!
Thank you so much!
Seba
Lucy Iwuagwu
Nursing and midwifery student
41
Answers
Lilongwe, Central Region, Malawi
Updated
Lucy’s Answer
To pursue a career in medicine:
Step 1: Education and Foundation (4-8 years)
1. Earn a Bachelor's degree in a science-related field (e.g., biology, chemistry).
2. Take pre-medical course requirements (e.g., anatomy, physiology).
3. Prepare for and take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
Step 2: Medical School (4 years)
1. Attend medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree.
2. Complete clinical rotations and electives.
Step 3: Residency and Licensure (3-7 years)
1. Complete a residency program in your chosen specialty.
2. Pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) series.
Step 4: Specialization and Certification
1. Pursue additional training through fellowships or certification programs.
2. Obtain board certification in your specialty.
Alternative Medicine Careers
1. Physician Assistant (PA)
2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
3. Pharmacist
4. Occupational Therapist (OT)
5. Physical Therapist (PT)
Key Skills and Qualities
1. Strong science foundation
2. Compassion and empathy
3. Effective communication
4. Critical thinking and problem-solving
5. Adaptability and resilience
Resources
1. American Medical Association (AMA)
2. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
4. Medical school admissions consultants
Step 1: Education and Foundation (4-8 years)
1. Earn a Bachelor's degree in a science-related field (e.g., biology, chemistry).
2. Take pre-medical course requirements (e.g., anatomy, physiology).
3. Prepare for and take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
Step 2: Medical School (4 years)
1. Attend medical school to earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree.
2. Complete clinical rotations and electives.
Step 3: Residency and Licensure (3-7 years)
1. Complete a residency program in your chosen specialty.
2. Pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) series.
Step 4: Specialization and Certification
1. Pursue additional training through fellowships or certification programs.
2. Obtain board certification in your specialty.
Alternative Medicine Careers
1. Physician Assistant (PA)
2. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
3. Pharmacist
4. Occupational Therapist (OT)
5. Physical Therapist (PT)
Key Skills and Qualities
1. Strong science foundation
2. Compassion and empathy
3. Effective communication
4. Critical thinking and problem-solving
5. Adaptability and resilience
Resources
1. American Medical Association (AMA)
2. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH)
4. Medical school admissions consultants
I appreciate your support, Lucy
Seba
Jamie Smith
Customer Care
5
Answers
Maxton, North Carolina
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
The field of medicine has many different options to transition into. I would recommend seeing if you are able to enter a shadow or intern program at a medical facility. This will allow you to see what specific area of medicine you have an interest in.