<p>kathymom. Physician here. Your son should apply to schools that match his ability and fit him academically, socially and financially. Most colleges work for medical school. Do not try to game the system by looking at statistics on how many get into medical school et al. Take medical school out of the equation but do insure the college has some sort of premed advising available (most schools will list premedical school advice somewhere on their website, ask in an email if he doesn’t find this type of info).</p>
<p>Your son needs a school with majors that interest him. He needs a school with his academic peer group- include your state flagship. He needs to be interested in his school as he will do his best where he is happiest. Any major works for medical school- all he needs are the required prerequisites (many medical students do major in a science since that interests them the most). The undergraduate years are the time to study whatever he wants- there will be plenty of time for medical subjects later. </p>
<p>Most premed students either change their minds or do not get into medical school. He therefore needs to consider a Plan B. Many or most college freshmen will change their proposed major, he shouldn’t worry about the choice he makes while still in HS. Your son will grow and change in college so allow for that- do not make medical school the all encompassing goal. Once he is in college he will learn more about his goals and other opportunities.</p>
<p>Short answer- make college choices regardless of his interest in medical school. Do not worry about that. Colleges/universities that interest him will work. One less thing to worry/obsess about. Most physicians will go to “average” medical schools where we all learn enough to become competent physicians. Most will not have gone to the most elite colleges- many will go to their state medical schools from their state flagship or other top schools in their state (or region). Some will go to unexpected schools.</p>