<p>I want to get an idea about what it's like as a pre-med at UVA.
-Course load, competition, availability of internships/research etc</p>
<p>i'm thinking about majoring in human biology if i do go if that helps at all, maybe a minor in spanish as well.</p>
<p>is it difficult because the classes are impossible? the competition somehow dominates you? or more due to having to manage your time etc? or what?</p>
<p>anything you have to say would be great
thanks</p>
<p>I love it when premeds talk about competition.</p>
<p>If competition worries you, please don’t apply to UVA and make room for people who actually want to learn ****.</p>
<p>On the other hand, it really depends on the class and professor. Among my favourite professors: Harman, Cronmiller, Grisham. They really encourage collaboration.</p>
<p>I do think the science departments could use a little institutional reform, to encourage tighter-knit classes and better pedagogy.</p>
<p>Also for this reason 80s series for chemistry and the 60s series for physics are actually easier on your grades, cuz the classes have more generous curves and the class sizes are smaller.</p>
<p>Well I hear everyone talking about it (competition) so I was wondering how it actually makes a difference- aside from intimidation.</p>
<p>My D is pre-med (double major: bio & chem or neuroscience if approved). She actually chose UVA because she felt the atmosphere was supportive rather than cutthroat like some of her higher ranked schools. She has been impressed, for the most part, with her professors (especially Harmon, her 1810 chem teacher). Bear in mind UVA is a larger research institute; consequently, the first two years you will have large lectures and smaller discussions/labs. In fairness, she had an exceptional science background and has told me that her test scores (A’s) are not indicative of the norm. However, like Frenchcoldplay stated, curves are fairly generous. One final word of advice…med schools want to see the highest GPA/rank at solid, reputable schools. B averages at ivys will not get noticed before A averages at other schools. If med school is your dream, go to the best school you can where you will have the best GPA ** AND ** the highest rank, internships, etc. against your class peers. Good luck!</p>
<p>The main science courses that will contribute to your undergraduate pre-med career are moderately difficult and fairly intense, but not impossible with dedication and hard work. There are TA’s and office hours that offer extra assistance and they are quite helpful. If you are used to hard work and you like the sciences, you should do well. Best of luck to you.</p>