How do I know if medical school is my "calling?"

Do some soul searching... is this what you want, or something that your family or friends think you should do? If you want it, then begin your research, while keeping in mind that there are many, many careers that require a medical degree and you are not restricted to owning your own practice or working in a hospital.

First, check out medical school requirements to know if you are academically ready for the challenge.

Next, you could research job postings for the specific types of medicine that you find the most interesting. Job postings will state both generic qualifications and specific requirements.

Examples might be: "We are looking for a caring, motivated individual that will fit in with our dynamic and changing environment" or "Requires an advanced degree in... and a proven ability to .... ".

Finally, it is good to talk to professionals in the field. Do you have a friend or acquaintance that could answer some questions or maybe even mentor you through the process of your medical career decision? If not, find someone who does... ask your neighbor or maybe your doctor or a nurse if they know of someone who could possibly assist. Once you have a contact, ask for time and permission to gather information, then BE PREPARED for the discussion. Brainstorm as many questions as you possibly can and then prioritize them in case you do not have time to get through all of your questions.

Good luck with your decisions!

As this is not a U.S. specific question, I feel entitled to reply too.

I think you know, you can't go back in time and if you could, the next question would be, how far would you go back in order to start over? Always assuming, you could take all your knowledge and experience with you.

If you don't want to feel sorrow to have chosen the wrong path in the future, then you should consider two things.

1. I see so many people, being almost 40 years old, being unhappy with their profession and recognizing, they did what their parents expected them to do.

2. When choosing my own 'calling' it was helpful to imagine I'm a billionaire who already visited all the interesting places in the world. After having a long sleep and being served breakfast by my butler on my motor yacht, what would I do with the rest of the day? One of my answers was 'Make computers talk to each other.'

Now I'm 50 years old and I still like doing what I do. I'd do it, even if I wouldn't get payed! But: I' like doing what I do. As I like what I do, I'm doing it good. As I'm doing it good, I get paid. Lo and behold! Two problems solved. :-) First, make sure I like what I do, second make a living.

Greetings from Germany.