Hello, I’m a sophomore in college on the pre-medical track, and I am currently a psychology and chemistry double major, but I am interested in changing majors to Social Work. What would be the benefits and drawbacks? Is this a good idea?
Thanks in advance!
Benefits–
There’s a huge demand for social workers. So you’re all-but-guaranteed to be able to find a job upon graduation. So that’s a huge plus
Drawbacks–
Fewer science classes to “dilute” the impact of any less than A grades on your sGPA.
Potentially may be difficult to fit in your remaining pre-reqs around the required classes for a BSW. Especially during your senior year when you will be doing your practicums–which are time-consuming
If social work is something that calls to you, then go for it.
Med schools and adcomms are pretty agnostic about an applicant's major so having an atypical major will neither help nor hinder you.
The only thing you need to consider is how you will answer the question: "why medicine and not social work?" It will help if you have some actual work experience as a social worker under your belt to help support your answers.