Is it okay to not take a science junior year
I am currently a sophomore in high school and I want to go into pre med. I have all my science credits from taking bio chem and biomedical science and I do not have room for another junior year. Is it ok to not take science junior year but take physics senior year. In addition I want to do the certified nursing class at my school but is it worth it if I wanna become a doctor and major in biology Because the class takes up 2 blocks so If I don't do it I could take more science classes. ?
5 answers
Katrina Voe’s Answer
On the other hand, if nursing piques your interest, the nursing class could be beneficial in helping you determine if this is the right career for you. It could demonstrate your interest in nursing and potentially aid your admission into nursing school, but it won't boost your chances of getting into college as a premed student. Both nursing and medicine are rewarding careers. However, the path to becoming a doctor is more arduous and time-consuming. You can become a nurse in significantly less time. Best of luck on your journey!
Jennifer’s Answer
Brett’s Answer
If by "pre-med" you mean a college course of study that prepares you for medical school, then I would take as many high level science classes in high school as possible. If you are confident in your choice to become a physician, I would suggest this route.
If you are interested in becoming a nurse prior to pursuing a doctor of medicine degree, then I would take the certified nursing class. The plus side of doing it this way is that you will gain valuable practical experience in the field of medicine. The down side is that if you choose to become a medical doctor, you are delaying the start of a long educational process. Most physicians are lucky if they finish all of their training by the age of 30. This route would push that into your mid to late 30s. You may find you change your mind (and this is not uncommon), and wish to stay in nursing. There are several routes within the nursing field where you can earn an advanced degree and become a "mid-level provider" such as a nurse practitioner or a certified registered nurse anesthetist.
Hope that helps, and good luck!
Brett Schlifstein, M.D.
Anesthesia Director
ECU Health Roanoke Chowan Hospital