So around freshman year of high school I was really into stuff like forensic science and wanted to become a forensic pathologist. But I took Chinese for a language and got really interested in learning the language to the point of fluency and wanting to become a translator but also get into business and possibly travel and work for a company in China. I have already applied and have been accepted to CSU Humboldt and chosen the major International Studies w/ Chinese concentration but recently I have been getting back to being interested in forensic science and medical careers. I still am interested in International Studies but I want to try and pursue being a forensic pathologist. Any suggestions? Like whether this combination could work out to get into med school. Or if you have an idea of the route I should take.
Thank you!
Med schools don’t care what your major is. You take the med school pre-requisite classes alongside whichever major you choose. Make an appointment to see the pre-med/pre-health advisor on campus. They can help you figure out when to take which pre-med class, what volunteer work and etc. is needed.
No problem…do you international studies…but add the premed requirements such as Bio, Chem, O CHem, Physics, Calc, English, etc.
But you will need to volunteer in a medical setting, do some shadowing and perhaps research as well.
Thank you! This is really helpful.
@BaiChun Your college will have a pre-health adviser…talk to them about mapping out your courses for pre-med.
It could actually be an advantage:
Volunteer at clinics where you can use you Chinese speaking skills. See if you can take an independent study in Chinese for Medical experience (or some such) when you’re a sophomore. As a junior study abroad in a setting that allows you to participate in health-related activities.
You’ll need to do well in your chosen major AND in 2 semesters each of biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, English + 1 semester each of psychology, sociology, calculus, statistics, biochemistry, a diversity-focused class, and if possible neuroscience/cognitive science and bioethics. Some of the above may come from your International Studies/Chinese track major! 
you don’t necessarily need *all of the classes that @MYOS1634 lists- that is the safest combo, b/c it covers all the bets, but not all med schools want all of those classes. A year each of the main lab sciences is essential everywhere, as is some calculus and usually biochem, but there is more variation in the second part of the list. Check out your home state med schools (the ones that you are most likely to go to). For example, I know that at least two of the UCs don’t require psych / soc / diversity / bioethics / neuro, and one that doesn’t even require English.