5 answers
Angelina
Student
Athol, Massachusetts
3
Questions
Updated
329 views
How can I study ahead for career?
I've been doing well in my grades and I think I've a lot of free time where I can make good use of it.I want to become a nurse or a medical doctor and I'm still deciding but I don't know what exactly is required of me to start my journey before I enter college.#Fall24
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5 answers
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
134
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Hello,
Learning how to learn is a great way to build up your mental muscles for your career path. If you can train your mind to enjoy learning new things, things that are even difficult to understand, you will overcome doubts on your abilities. Aside from your normal studies learn a new language or in particular, learn Latin because of all the medical terminology that is based in Latin. Always ask open ended questions to people you know who are currently in the profession you are seeking. Such as "What would you do in my situation if you wanted to become a doctor." Good luck, you will do well.
Learning how to learn is a great way to build up your mental muscles for your career path. If you can train your mind to enjoy learning new things, things that are even difficult to understand, you will overcome doubts on your abilities. Aside from your normal studies learn a new language or in particular, learn Latin because of all the medical terminology that is based in Latin. Always ask open ended questions to people you know who are currently in the profession you are seeking. Such as "What would you do in my situation if you wanted to become a doctor." Good luck, you will do well.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Angelina
Thank you so much for the tips
Angelina
You are welcome. Look into CLEP testing to test out of some basic courses for college. It is a great way to save time and money.
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Rachel Kibby
Physician
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hello. Doctor here. I want to start by saying I think the most important thing you can do at this time is figure out which path you want to go down. While they're in the same field of healthcare, the roles are SO different and figuring out which one you would be more suited for is absolutely paramount. I knew very early on that I would not be a great nurse and I would be unhappy in that role. I have the most respect for nurses and my job would be entirely impossible without them. A big difference is figuring out whether you want to be the one actually acting on the orders prescribed by a physician or if you want to be the one making those decisions. I would HIGHLY recommend shadowing both and getting a better perspective on your own goals when it comes to patient care. Unfortunately, nurses are subjected to more abuse (whether it be physical or verbal) from the patients and it is a pretty thankless job for what they put up with. However, nurses typically have more flexibility when it comes to their schedule and autonomy, which is an absolute advantage over physicians. It also depends on your goals/priorities in life as well. I know this wasn't exactly your question, however, without more information about yourself/what you want long-term, it is very difficult to answer simply because the roles and expectations of each career path are so different. Again, I would recommend shadowing both nurses and doctors so you can figure out which path would be most fulfilling. (In my experience, the easiest way to accomplish this is having personal connections to people in the field and just asking the question about shadowing.) Feel free to ask any follow-up questions. -Dr. K
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Angelina
Justin Shapiro
Accounting | Finance | Financial Systems | Non-Profit Volunteer
76
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Justin’s Answer
Hi Angelina,
It’s fantastic that you’re thinking ahead! Here are some steps to prepare for a career in nursing or medicine:
1. Focus on Science and Math Courses
• Medical and nursing programs often have prerequisites in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
• Take advanced courses if available, like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or statistics, which will give you a strong foundation.
2. Develop Strong Study and Time-Management Skills
• Medical fields require intensive study. Building effective study techniques now, such as active recall and spaced repetition, will prepare you for the rigorous coursework ahead.
3. Gain Exposure to Healthcare Settings
• Volunteer or find part-time work in a healthcare environment like a hospital, clinic, or nursing home. Look for roles like patient transport or administrative support.
• Many hospitals also have youth volunteer programs that can give you a feel for the environment and help you start building a network.
4. Shadow Healthcare Professionals
• Try to shadow both nurses and doctors to understand the day-to-day responsibilities and find out what interests you most.
• Reach out to healthcare providers or local clinics to see if they offer shadowing opportunities.
5. Strengthen Your Communication Skills
• Medical and nursing careers require effective communication with patients, families, and colleagues. Volunteering in roles that involve helping people, like crisis hotlines or community programs, can help develop these skills.
6. Get Involved in Science Clubs or Organizations
• Participate in science clubs, pre-medical or health clubs, or organizations like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) if available.
• These can give you additional learning opportunities and let you meet others interested in healthcare careers.
7. Start Reading Medical Content
• Familiarize yourself with basic anatomy, medical terminology, or recent health studies through books, articles, or websites.
• Websites like MedlinePlus and the NIH are reliable sources for health-related topics and news.
8. Learn About the College Pathway Requirements
• Research programs for both nursing and medical schools to understand their prerequisites. Many schools provide this information online.
• If you’re leaning towards medicine, understanding the requirements for pre-med programs and eventually the MCAT exam is a good start.
It’s fantastic that you’re thinking ahead! Here are some steps to prepare for a career in nursing or medicine:
1. Focus on Science and Math Courses
• Medical and nursing programs often have prerequisites in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
• Take advanced courses if available, like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or statistics, which will give you a strong foundation.
2. Develop Strong Study and Time-Management Skills
• Medical fields require intensive study. Building effective study techniques now, such as active recall and spaced repetition, will prepare you for the rigorous coursework ahead.
3. Gain Exposure to Healthcare Settings
• Volunteer or find part-time work in a healthcare environment like a hospital, clinic, or nursing home. Look for roles like patient transport or administrative support.
• Many hospitals also have youth volunteer programs that can give you a feel for the environment and help you start building a network.
4. Shadow Healthcare Professionals
• Try to shadow both nurses and doctors to understand the day-to-day responsibilities and find out what interests you most.
• Reach out to healthcare providers or local clinics to see if they offer shadowing opportunities.
5. Strengthen Your Communication Skills
• Medical and nursing careers require effective communication with patients, families, and colleagues. Volunteering in roles that involve helping people, like crisis hotlines or community programs, can help develop these skills.
6. Get Involved in Science Clubs or Organizations
• Participate in science clubs, pre-medical or health clubs, or organizations like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) if available.
• These can give you additional learning opportunities and let you meet others interested in healthcare careers.
7. Start Reading Medical Content
• Familiarize yourself with basic anatomy, medical terminology, or recent health studies through books, articles, or websites.
• Websites like MedlinePlus and the NIH are reliable sources for health-related topics and news.
8. Learn About the College Pathway Requirements
• Research programs for both nursing and medical schools to understand their prerequisites. Many schools provide this information online.
• If you’re leaning towards medicine, understanding the requirements for pre-med programs and eventually the MCAT exam is a good start.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Angelina
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6230
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Angelina!
How to Study Ahead for a Career in Nursing or Medicine
To prepare for a career in nursing or medicine while still in high school, you can take several proactive steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively utilize your free time and study ahead.
1. Understand the Educational Pathways
Before diving into specific study strategies, it’s essential to understand the educational requirements for both nursing and medical careers:
Nursing: To become a registered nurse (RN), you typically need an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). After completing your degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your license.
Medicine: Becoming a medical doctor requires more extensive education. You will need to complete a bachelor’s degree (often with a focus on science courses), followed by four years of medical school, and then residency training which can last from three to seven years depending on the specialty.
2. Focus on Relevant Coursework
While still in high school, prioritize courses that will prepare you for college-level science and health courses:
Biology and Chemistry: These subjects are foundational for both nursing and medicine. A strong understanding of human biology, anatomy, physiology, and chemistry is crucial.
Mathematics: Courses such as algebra and statistics are important as they are used in various aspects of healthcare, including dosage calculations and data analysis.
Health Sciences: If available at your school, consider taking health science classes that introduce you to basic medical concepts.
3. Gain Practical Experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable:
Volunteer Work: Look for volunteer opportunities at local hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. This exposure will give you insight into the healthcare environment and patient care.
Shadowing Professionals: Try to arrange shadowing experiences with nurses or doctors. This will help you understand their daily responsibilities and challenges.
4. Develop Study Skills
Effective study habits are crucial for success in any field:
Time Management: Create a study schedule that allocates time for each subject based on difficulty and importance. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to stay organized.
Active Learning Techniques: Engage with the material through active learning methods such as summarizing information in your own words, teaching concepts to others, or creating flashcards.
Practice Tests: Utilize practice exams related to nursing or medical entrance tests (like the SAT or ACT) to familiarize yourself with question formats and improve test-taking skills.
5. Research College Programs
Start researching colleges that offer nursing or pre-med programs:
Look into admission requirements, program curricula, faculty qualifications, and student support services.
Consider visiting campuses if possible or attending virtual information sessions to get a feel for different programs.
6. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Most colleges require standardized test scores as part of their admissions process:
Familiarize yourself with the SAT/ACT format early on. Consider taking preparatory courses if needed.
Practice regularly using official test prep materials available online or through libraries.
7. Stay Informed About Healthcare Trends
Keeping up-to-date with current events in healthcare can provide context for your studies:
Read articles from reputable sources about advancements in medicine, public health issues, and changes in healthcare policies.
Follow relevant organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) or the American Medical Association (AMA) for news updates.
8. Build Soft Skills
In addition to academic knowledge, soft skills are vital in healthcare settings:
Work on communication skills by participating in group projects or public speaking activities.
Develop empathy and teamwork abilities through collaborative work experiences or community service initiatives.
By following these steps diligently during your free time before entering college, you’ll be well-prepared for either path toward becoming a nurse or a medical doctor.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Nurses Association (ANA) - The ANA provides comprehensive resources regarding nursing education pathways, professional standards, and ongoing developments within the nursing profession.
2. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) - The AAMC offers detailed information about medical school requirements, application processes, and resources tailored specifically for aspiring medical students.
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH) - The NIH is an authoritative source of health-related research information that includes insights into current trends affecting medicine and healthcare practices globally.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
How to Study Ahead for a Career in Nursing or Medicine
To prepare for a career in nursing or medicine while still in high school, you can take several proactive steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively utilize your free time and study ahead.
1. Understand the Educational Pathways
Before diving into specific study strategies, it’s essential to understand the educational requirements for both nursing and medical careers:
Nursing: To become a registered nurse (RN), you typically need an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). After completing your degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your license.
Medicine: Becoming a medical doctor requires more extensive education. You will need to complete a bachelor’s degree (often with a focus on science courses), followed by four years of medical school, and then residency training which can last from three to seven years depending on the specialty.
2. Focus on Relevant Coursework
While still in high school, prioritize courses that will prepare you for college-level science and health courses:
Biology and Chemistry: These subjects are foundational for both nursing and medicine. A strong understanding of human biology, anatomy, physiology, and chemistry is crucial.
Mathematics: Courses such as algebra and statistics are important as they are used in various aspects of healthcare, including dosage calculations and data analysis.
Health Sciences: If available at your school, consider taking health science classes that introduce you to basic medical concepts.
3. Gain Practical Experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable:
Volunteer Work: Look for volunteer opportunities at local hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. This exposure will give you insight into the healthcare environment and patient care.
Shadowing Professionals: Try to arrange shadowing experiences with nurses or doctors. This will help you understand their daily responsibilities and challenges.
4. Develop Study Skills
Effective study habits are crucial for success in any field:
Time Management: Create a study schedule that allocates time for each subject based on difficulty and importance. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to stay organized.
Active Learning Techniques: Engage with the material through active learning methods such as summarizing information in your own words, teaching concepts to others, or creating flashcards.
Practice Tests: Utilize practice exams related to nursing or medical entrance tests (like the SAT or ACT) to familiarize yourself with question formats and improve test-taking skills.
5. Research College Programs
Start researching colleges that offer nursing or pre-med programs:
Look into admission requirements, program curricula, faculty qualifications, and student support services.
Consider visiting campuses if possible or attending virtual information sessions to get a feel for different programs.
6. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Most colleges require standardized test scores as part of their admissions process:
Familiarize yourself with the SAT/ACT format early on. Consider taking preparatory courses if needed.
Practice regularly using official test prep materials available online or through libraries.
7. Stay Informed About Healthcare Trends
Keeping up-to-date with current events in healthcare can provide context for your studies:
Read articles from reputable sources about advancements in medicine, public health issues, and changes in healthcare policies.
Follow relevant organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) or the American Medical Association (AMA) for news updates.
8. Build Soft Skills
In addition to academic knowledge, soft skills are vital in healthcare settings:
Work on communication skills by participating in group projects or public speaking activities.
Develop empathy and teamwork abilities through collaborative work experiences or community service initiatives.
By following these steps diligently during your free time before entering college, you’ll be well-prepared for either path toward becoming a nurse or a medical doctor.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Nurses Association (ANA) - The ANA provides comprehensive resources regarding nursing education pathways, professional standards, and ongoing developments within the nursing profession.
2. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) - The AAMC offers detailed information about medical school requirements, application processes, and resources tailored specifically for aspiring medical students.
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH) - The NIH is an authoritative source of health-related research information that includes insights into current trends affecting medicine and healthcare practices globally.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Sahida Khatun
Software Consultant and Analyst
79
Answers
Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Updated
Sahida’s Answer
That’s fantastic that you want to start early! Preparing ahead can give you a strong foundation and make college a smoother experience. Here are some steps you can take to get started:
1. Build a Strong Science Foundation
Biology and Chemistry: Since these are core areas in both nursing and medical programs, get comfortable with them now. You could dive into topics like human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and basic chemistry.
Math Skills: Statistics and general math skills are helpful for both nursing and medical studies, especially when interpreting data or doing dosage calculations.
2. Take Advanced Courses (if available)
Look into AP or honors courses in biology, chemistry, or even psychology. These subjects will give you college-level exposure and might allow you to skip introductory courses once you’re in college.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
Volunteering: Many hospitals and clinics have volunteer programs, even for high school students. Observing healthcare professionals in action will help you get a feel for the environment and give you a realistic view of both nursing and doctor roles.
Shadowing: If possible, shadow a nurse or doctor. Some hospitals or private practices allow students to spend a day observing professionals. This experience can provide insights into their daily routines, the skills needed, and the challenges they face.
4. Focus on Extracurriculars
Participating in health-related clubs, like a HOSA-Future Health Professionals chapter if your school has one, can deepen your knowledge of the field and look great on college applications.
5. Develop Study and Time Management Skills
Both nursing and medical programs are rigorous, so developing solid study habits, time management, and self-discipline now will be a huge benefit. Consider practicing with study tools like flashcards, note-taking techniques, and organization strategies.
6. Explore Career Paths in Healthcare
As you’re deciding between nursing and being a doctor, researching both career paths and understanding their daily responsibilities, required education, and different specialties can help you make a more informed decision.
If you'd like more specific resources or tips for particular subjects, I’d be happy to help!
1. Build a Strong Science Foundation
Biology and Chemistry: Since these are core areas in both nursing and medical programs, get comfortable with them now. You could dive into topics like human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and basic chemistry.
Math Skills: Statistics and general math skills are helpful for both nursing and medical studies, especially when interpreting data or doing dosage calculations.
2. Take Advanced Courses (if available)
Look into AP or honors courses in biology, chemistry, or even psychology. These subjects will give you college-level exposure and might allow you to skip introductory courses once you’re in college.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
Volunteering: Many hospitals and clinics have volunteer programs, even for high school students. Observing healthcare professionals in action will help you get a feel for the environment and give you a realistic view of both nursing and doctor roles.
Shadowing: If possible, shadow a nurse or doctor. Some hospitals or private practices allow students to spend a day observing professionals. This experience can provide insights into their daily routines, the skills needed, and the challenges they face.
4. Focus on Extracurriculars
Participating in health-related clubs, like a HOSA-Future Health Professionals chapter if your school has one, can deepen your knowledge of the field and look great on college applications.
5. Develop Study and Time Management Skills
Both nursing and medical programs are rigorous, so developing solid study habits, time management, and self-discipline now will be a huge benefit. Consider practicing with study tools like flashcards, note-taking techniques, and organization strategies.
6. Explore Career Paths in Healthcare
As you’re deciding between nursing and being a doctor, researching both career paths and understanding their daily responsibilities, required education, and different specialties can help you make a more informed decision.
If you'd like more specific resources or tips for particular subjects, I’d be happy to help!
I appreciate your support, Sahida
Angelina