I finally got into the college of my dreams and I am enjoying my first semester of college. Now what? I’ve started whittling down my prerequisites for med school and like the major track I’m on.
Once you feel you have a good handle on managing your academics, you can start adding ECs. Pre-med ECs include all of the following: physician shadowing, clinical volunteering, community service, clinical or laboratory research, and taking on leadership positions. In addition, some med schools like to see applicants who have teaching/tutoring/coaching experiences. (Because a large part of a physician’s job is educating patients.)
You should also explore joining special interest or hobby clubs, intramural sports teams, or a sorority–things that provide a social outlet and give you a chance to spend time with individuals with whom you share common interests.
Med schools are looking for interesting, well-rounded individuals who have good people skills and are team players–things you won’t learn in an academic classroom.
“Because a large part of a physician’s job is educating patients.”
The word doctor is derived from Latin word “docere” meaning to teach
Thank you both! I’m currently under shadow term in my school, and I feel like i’ve having a hard time adjusting to the courseload, even though i love all the courses i’m taking. any tips to adjust quickly to college level work?
You should have a goal to get As in every course, if you want to go to med school.
There are no tricks or shortcuts–you just need to keep your head down and work, work, work. You will eventually adjust and become more efficient in your study habits.
Some things to keep in mind–
Don’t let yourself fall behind in any class because it quickly becomes almost impossible to catch up.
If you are having any difficulties whatsoever, don’t hesitate to get help right away. There’s no shame in asking for help. (Only in not asking for it and failing due to pride or stubbornness.) Seek out tutoring at your college’s academic support center. Go to your prof’s or TA’s office hours. Join study groups for your science & math classes.
Set a weekly study schedule and stick to it–even if means you’re missing out on some fun activities. But also don’t let yourself become an academic grind who spends every minute of her free time in the library studying.
Take care of yourself. Make sure you eat regularly and get sufficient sleep. Set aside some time each week for friends, hobbies and relaxation. Also set aside some time each week for regular exercise (which improves mood, memory, overall mental health and physical wellbeing).
Good luck!
Thank you all! This semester has been eye opening for me, and I still know I want to do medicine. I’ll start diversifying my ECs starting this January