Political Science Major on a Pre-Med Track: American University or Brandeis University

College Search & Selection
1

Hey everyone! I would love some insight into what others think about where I would be able to reap the benefits the most.

I am currently choosing between two options, American University, and Brandeis University. I am planning on majoring in political science on a pre-med track.

So obviously AU being in D.C. gives me an advantage with poli sci, but the end goal is getting into med school so I need to make sure the institution I commit to will open doors for me to go to an even more selective medical school. My dream med school would UPenn, but other selective schools such as GW med school or UW med school are also high on my list.

All this being said, I was wondering from those who have attended either AU or Brandeis as pre-med but maybe on a non-science track what benefits did you receive?

Any help at all is beneficial!!

Thanks!

2

So you plan to major in political science and take all the sciences including organic chemistry as electives?

3

Yes. The courses I will take towards my degree plan will be required. While my pre-med classes will be electives.

4

My advice for pre meds is to pick the school that you would choose if you were not pre med.

5

But wouldn’t it be essential for me to look into the rigor of the program and benefits of pre-med at each institution? For example, I have read and heard on several occasions that AU doesn’t have the strongest science program, but Brandeis is known for having a strong pre-med program. So in that regard, I would be at a disadvantage at AU, unless it has something else or equally as beneficial to add to a students pre-med experience.

For example, it was solely based on my political science major I would more likely lean towards AU bc of how it’s well known for politics, etc; but in the 4 years after college I hope to be admitted into a medical school meaning it is equally as essential for me to have a good understanding of my degree, and the degree program I am attempting to enter.

6

If you want to go pre-med then think about:

  1. The cheapest reasonable college so you/your parents can use the money for med school
  2. The college needs to prepare you for MCATs but still allow you to get a good GPA
  3. Access to volunteering opportunities (e.g., near a hospital)
  4. Success in graduates getting into med school
  5. Options if you don’t go to med school